FEBRUARY 17, 2006
Mahatma
Gandhi simple, humble, fiercely resolute, and one who literally walked the talk is not thought of as environmentalist, but lets examine that in the light of today, and we may have a different view of this saintly character.
Vegetarian ate low on the food chain
Non-consumptive in his later years owned basically nothing except his glasses, and a walking stick and the clothes on his back
Protected that which he loved he loved India and the freedom for the Indian people drove him to confront the British establishment a true environmentalist is one who protects his or her surroundings by showing love in deed as well as in word
Inclusive Gandhi saw the divine in the collective, not one species, caste, religion or nationality a true environmentalist sees the intrinsic worth of all in creation
Energy Conscious walked and walked his way around his nation encouraging people to produce cloth on their own looms in their own homes
5 such character traits in one man is highly unusual, especially one with such a high profile. By our standards today he would certainly qualify as an environmentalist; adding the 6 trait to our repertoire is essential, but for Gandhi it was a part of his being. He was willing to speak truth to power when he knew he was right. This is the calling of every one of us today.
I have made one pilgrimage in my life and it was to the stark slab black marble marker dedicated to the life of Gandhi. He was cremated, but the national shrine honors his impact on the millions of Indian citizens. It is a simple shrine reflective of the man himself.
I have always been inspired by the courage of his convictions. I only wish I could infuse myself and many others with the potion that gave him that strength. In the meanwhile lets all try and live by his words.
Be the change you want to see in the world. Amen
--Peter