Dear
Friends,
This is the 50th Anniversary of Earth Day; Friday, April 24 is Arbor
Day. In this time of Covoid-19, a virus that attacks the respiratory
system, it's especially meaningful to think about, honor and celebrate trees --
the lungs of the Earth.
The whole world is on pause. This pause, unbidden and unprecedented, has
given the Earth a chance to catch her breath -- and us a chance to contemplate
how we can better preserve the wonderful gifts we've been given.
There has never been a more important time to think globally and act locally –
from home, if we are fortunate enough to have one.
Population
Connection has a great list of 22 ways to celebrate Earth Day from home.
Closer
to home, The Dwelling Place of New York,
a transitional residence for homeless women, is sheltering its residents
in place; they are, in turn, making meals and face masks for other New Yorkers
in need. Learn more about them and contribute what you can.
Finally,
plant a tree; the ARBOR DAY FOUNDATION will help
you - or do if for you!
When
we are able to take a deep breath, let us feel thankful for that.
Stay
safe and sound and healthy.
Now we've reached it
The crux of the matter
Our right to survive
Our right to stand tall
In our own magic
The magic we made
Before you – before
Our magic was choked
Now we've reached it
The crux of the matter
Waiting for us, verdant
Cradling all we hold dear
Now we've reached it
The place where we separate
To pause at the Crossroads
Against this rough magic
Our backs up against it.
©photograph & text copyright Margaret McCarthy 2020