en.wikipedia.org
The Real Work
What I would say in one sentence is
that, for Americans, the real work is becoming native to North America. The
real work is becoming native in your heart, coming to understand we really live
here, that this is really the continent we're on and that our loyalties are
here, to these mountains and rivers, to these plant zones, to these creatures.
The real work involves developing a loyalty that goes back before the formation
of any nation state, back billions of years and thousands of years into the
future. The real work is accepting citizenship in the continent itself.
- Gary Snyder
On the same day I read these words, I read a letter to the editor in our local paper which was not a joke, seriously suggesting, in order to "prevent damage to cars by wild animals getting in 'our' way on the highways" that they - (a representative number, I surmise, perhaps two of each?) - be HERDED INTO ONE of the national parks and that it then BE FENCED. Only one park. That would solve a lot of problems. Leave the other national parks for people?????
You cannot make this stuff up! Human consciousness has SUCH a long way to go! Sigh.
Maybe we need to invent a ritual--other than USA citizenship that people who want to be of this continent can prepare for and go through? Maybe ask for help from natives that know?
ReplyDeletekinda like we herded first nation into an area so they dont get in the way...ugh...the arogance of some is disturbing...
ReplyDeleteSome suggestions are given that only solves local problems and for personal convenience. If only more thought is given to the big picture it can be a lot better for everyone! Great thoughts Sherry!
ReplyDeleteHank
I alway laugh when I hear about "problem animals" like the urban deer in Toronto. The only problem animal walks on 2 legs.
ReplyDeleteboy that is off the wall...
ReplyDeleteThat is amazing!
ReplyDeleteLovely Snyder quote and great response. Crazy world. Thanks. Karin
ReplyDeleteyou can't make up the words that flow when someone speaks or writes without pausing before blurting something ridiculous...
ReplyDeleteI agree with whoever said that humans are the most dangerous animals to and on this planet. Thanks for the reminder once again, Sherry,
ReplyDeleteElizabeth