Yay I was so excited to see this email on a random Sunday night, it is such a privilege to watch the book evolve. I was just thinking about the point that Devon makes that you mention: Those of us living in the privileged world are ill equipped to handle discomfort. I totally agree but I also wonder if we are equally ill-equipped to handle too much comfort as well. I like to imagine in the face of collapse that us humans don't roll over and give up but instead we embrace the changes and that the discomfort (depending on the level of course) is actually the thing that gives us that sense of purpose and meaning that we are all so desperately craving. I guess only time will tell. Thanks for this bonus email Sarah x
Very random Sunday night (Australian time) thing...I meant for it to go out tomorrow (Monday morning). Sigh, I'm just not great with tech/detail stuff like this.
I'm reading this one wild and precious life again. I bought it when it first came out. Oh boy do I feel lucky to own one of the originals. I hope you get your books back soon x
Yes...and the company was rescued...and I thought my $$ and books would be saved...however as per an update I give in tomorrow's post...it's not looking good. Hmmmm.
Amazing this beautiful essay was written 5 years ago. Corey is referenced here too. As is Joanna Macey. So much more fodder here for you Sarah. But alas - we’re far beyond needing any more ‘proof’ of our un-stoppable spiral towards extinction.
This is the first time I’ve commented here throughout your serialisation process Sarah (although as you know - I’ve weighed-in on many discussions prior to this venture).
But yeah, I’ve just been quietly watching and waiting from the sidelines this time. Every time I’ve attempted to contribute something, I’ve just felt mute, and then retreated again.
I feel our collapsing world has often rendered me speechless. I often feel beyond (or perhaps lost for) words.
For me personally, I need to start really crying (even more). I need to ‘feel into’ rather than intellectualise this. I found myself crying in the first episode of “We are the Great Turning”. Because there is still SO much beauty in our world, and in relationships, and I love my life - this incredible miracle of human experience/existence.
I feel so blessed to have wondered and wandered through so many beautiful places during my 45-years on this particular planet.
I have met so many wonderful humans and cultivated so many incredible friendships in my life travels.
I now live each day like it might be my last. I pause longer when I feel welcomed sunshine on my skin. I sit on the grass, and I observe the comings-and-goings of many other species around me…some so tiny I have to crouch right down to watch them.
None of us ever know when our time here is up. We never have. So right now, I will roll back over and cuddle my beautiful 6yo sleeping daughter who still crawls into my bed at some stage every night. She breathes deeply and innocently. And if/when I wake to see the sun_rise again…I shall live and love with everything I’ve got ❤️ xx
I really love this project. Despite the heaviness of the subject matter, it's beyond refreshing to read and consider everything in a more substantive format. With intelligent and thought provoking discourse. I have to discipline myself not to read commentary on social media - it just makes me sad and angry.
On the Booktopia situation - I'm so sorry to hear about what has happened. However, I also just read that they have been rescued!! They've been bought by digiDirect and according to the news reports, can start trading again immediately. I hope that means all of your books and at least some of your $$ earned will be on their way to you soon!
You asked about the loss of meaning in the fertility collapse. Raising my kids as a uk migrant to Australia with an Australian hubby who worked extremely long days was challenging. We had no family in the state. What got me through was the Maternal and child health running a mother’s group, story time at the library, parks, being in a walkable suburb, the community crèche and kindergarten. In other words relationships of skill and care and therefore love and depth. But what do these precious children grow up into? Necrocapitalism. Everything is for profit and extraction. Why bother? Unless we can feel our way through to grief, acknowledgment and repair, we’re toast.
Thank you, thank you, thank you Sarah. On the topic of the book serialisation, I just feel so grateful that you made the choice to go this way. You knew this couldn't wait. It had to get out into the world NOW. It's so wonderful to learn about how these discussions are helping you shape the book.
What jumped out to me: "how the need for meaning is affecting the fertility problem" - it makes so much sense that there is more to this than just economics (of course there are the endocrine disrupting chemicals as well). I would love to hear you/ others expand on this idea more.
And the dot points from the Devon post. Absolutely went straight to the heart of it all. I'll be diving into that article tomorrow.
Sorry to hear about the booktopia situation. I hope you draw strength from knowing just how crucial the work you are doing now has become. X
Oh my gosh Sarah I was horrified to read about what’s happened to your books with Booktopia and so glad to read that this current writing project is as enjoyable for you as it is for me (and others I’m sure!).
Yes I love the idea of the edited chapters and writing notes every few months.
I loved Devon Price’s points, particularly this one “The world after capitalisation will not be a war zone. It will be a long, vulnerable night on the porch with your friends.” It reminds me of the final scene in Don’t Look Up – that’s how I would want to spend my final hours.
I am getting the same messages over and over again. Community.
Yes please! I would love you to have Corey Bradshaw on Wild!
I love this iterative approach, how much traction your building, and being part of the conversation.
Really sorry to hear about the debacle with your other book!
And Devon Price. What wisdom. And echoes again of Sharon Blackie's book Hagitude that I'm reading alongside this one. She too talks about coming into ourselves, albeit as an aging thing. But collapse, mortality, all related as we've been exploring. Devon, and others talk about masking as a neurodivergent phenomenon. But reading Sharon's observations I wonder if we all mask.
And again, please don't take offence Sarah, but perhaps this is where you can use your research more actively than writing another book. Through your hard work and tenancity you have created association with some really influential people. People with platforms put there by the common people. Maybe it's time for the Leonardo di Caprio's, the George Clooney's, the Cate Blanchett's to come down amongst the people who gave them their platforms and use their influence to get the attention of those in power. After all, don't the polies love to align themselves with the celebrities for the ultimate media opportunity? Imagine if we had a global picnic day and the images of the Palestinians sitting amonst the rubble in Ghaza coming together as a community enjoying "a picnic with placards"? There are so many dynamic solutions to our current crisis - we just have to make it look exciting and trendy to be part of the solution.
Yes, I know what you mean. I do my best, but I LOSE followers when I do speak out. People THINKk they want famous ppl or influencers to take a stand...but it doesn't play out this way. Again...moloch.
Choice paralysis becomes apathy. How many of us wish that we had your discipline and determination to utilise a comfortable financial situation to pursue our activism and " ... live how we feel we should be living, morally. And inspire ppl with our actions (and the joy we derive from living in congruence with nature!)" This is no longer a reality for the masses. The reason I am so frustrated and jaded and feeling apathetic is because it is not possible for me to do as you, quite rightly suggest, "live how we feel". As an empath, my healing/recharging place has always been nature. However, to get to nature I have to drive my car (conflicted), observe the roadkill - wombats, kangaroos (angry, sad), and when I get to my place of nature observe that the trees are dying because their canopies are burning from the intensity of the Sun because of the depletion of the ozone (depressed). I volunteer for Koala Clancy where we plant trees in and around the You Yangs near Geelong in Victoria. There are now only three koalas in the You Yangs which are open to the general public who bring their dogs, mountain bike, drive their cars to the top of the mountain to sit in their cars and enjoy the views. There are no rubbish bins and people are asked to take their rubbish home with them. So now the You Yangs are scattered with dog poo or dog poo in little green baggies, because no-one wants to have a poo bag in their car on their return journey. The park is littered with broken glass from yobbos smashing their beer bottles or pretty coloured alcoholic drink bottles on the majestic granite rocks. And when I do find a solitary corner of the park to try and take some deep breathes, I can guarantee a carload of noisy, excited people will pull up next to me. And so, having set out to try and recharge my batteries to get through another working week, I get into my car (further conflicted), cry all the way home (further depressed) and drag myself through another working week, most mornings wishing that I hadn't woken up. And this is not just me as a 54 year old female. So many of my friends and associates in this age group with a fondness for nature have said the same thing - I wouldn't mind if I didn't wake up in the morning. These are the good people - the Jedis. And we are losing them. I believe that all these amazing environmentally concerned NFPs, organisations, advocates, lobbyists, scientists, experts need to come together as one - because individuals don't know who to align themselves with to do the greatest good and do it now. If we could all come together as one, even if it is just for one day, even if it just starts out in one State or one Country to perhaps even inspire a global movement - if we could all down tools for one day and come together in a peaceful gathering to show our strength - the numbers would far outweigh those in power and would highlight the appetite for dynamic, positive, inclusive societal change and that we are champing at the bit to help those in power create sustainable, safe, exciting, resilient communities. Do you think this could be possible?
Hi Kylie...sadly I don't think this is possible. We are too deep in the moloch (see an upcoming chapter)....and it's no one's fault. Rather than hoping (and then being horribly disappointed), we are better off putting our efforts into living as true as we can - in congruence with nature, etc. Maybe try mixing it up. Catch a train to a forest you've never heard of and just observe it for what it is. Play. Come to see beauty in life's desire to correct from the destruction and so on. Also, if your peace is disturbed by some yobbos, at 54 I think we have full permission to firmly ask them to go away.
Also it's the intolerance thing that comes w menopause
I read your comment. And HEAR SEE and FEEL YOU
Why is it so hard Now to find quiet, unbroken, u rubbished places..
It seems everywhere.
Not just where u r
Don't stop.
Keep going into nature.
Hug a tree. Swim in the ocean. Barefoot the ground.
We need it. I agree with all your words and I too, am over the yobbos who have little care..
Recently I saw my first turtle, in the oceans of qld. She was beautiful, yet dead floating into the water,...people just shrugged and walked off
I said " we did that " " humans did that " ...gosh:(
Kylie, I am similar. And hear of many not caring if they wake up, or end game and glad it's nearly over..
There ARE enough lanterns to keep us afloat, change the us versus them thing..
We are still alive aren't we?
We need you, us, other women feelers as shitty as that is. I reckon ita better to feel, even the grotesque and heartbreaking to become totally numb, like many
Thanks for recommending Nate's chat with Corey Bradshaw. The depth and breadth of his knowledge is astounding! I'd love to hear him on Wild. The bit that finally made me cry was near the end, when he aled about his 17 year old daughter and her generation, how they don't want to drink or do drugs or drive, 'they're just focusing on being good people'. There's something heartbreaking beautiful about that. Dealing with a terrifying future and taking the high road!
That's great! 😊 Two areas that stood out for me were how little is known about insect populations and projections for extinction.....and his take on human population projections, given he said fertility rates will increase with infant mortality increase
It was a really great chat with him and Nate. I felt Nate disagreed on some things, and I similarly wonder about fertility rate increasing. Curious about microplastics impact on that one!
I think it's one of those things where every expert is a little bit niche, you aren't accounting for all variables, only the ones in your lane.
You are the epitome for intelligent women trudging through the snow barefoot regardless, of what's biting at your heels...
Many of us squash our intelligence...as I have found brains get you nowhere...people don't want complex and intelligent...
I reckon pain is a good way to get you in the moment. And we can distract distract distract to NOT feel it until it's so fucking evident...it has to be dealt with..
How are so many heads in the sand still?
A woman I met lost her home in the floods, then a divorce etc etc...then had to move into fri3nds shed because of housing crisis..where she felt the husband didn't want her there...
An awkward place to be...
It's the worst. When you feel in the way, yet have nowhere else to go..
Anyway. She's just been informed she has pancreatic cancer
A deadly beast. It got my uncle. In 3 months, he was gone...
We met and did an ocean dip and recalled an old Australia, where people generally helped and trusted one another...
We also spoke of the scrappy menopause and loss of physicality that goes with it..
So, I get a text. I have pancreatic cancer. And in immense pain...
:(:(:(:(
SEE WHAT STRESS AND OVERLOAD DOES!?
PERSONALLY, I AM SICK OF GOOD WOMEN BE DESTROYED AND LET DOWN BY CURRENT NON SYSTEMS...
those who are single weirdest get it.
Anyway. Sun is out. Today I am alive.
May you all be happy and well and not have to look too hard for glimmers, because you are one. X
Sar ... I'm cross for you that you've been hit by the Booktopia crash. Praying favour over you with the administrators/future buyers. Often with these situations it's a long waiting game. 🙏
Thank you for sharing your iterations especially those influent by your sub stack peeps.
Furthermore, having stepped out of the shower which is where i do my best thinking (perhaps don't go visual with that imagery - LOL) the time for constructive action is now
Because, as noted by historians and Meg Wheatley, the destructive action will commence and we are already seeing evidence of that in London and, closer to home, Melbourne with the Neo-Nazis confronting the Pro Palestinian supporters.
Yes I'm feeling the call for constructive action. Reading this book has been wonderful and enlightening but I'm wondering where to from here (I probably should wait until the books finished). I have been looking inward lately and quite frankly I am sick of myself. I like feeling like I am a part of something bigger. I love the discussion in this comments section (so many wise people) and would love to hear about how everyone is dealing with this. The big, small, individual or collective changes or mindset shifts that everyone is making.
I'm going to sound a bit grumpy but I'm extremely frustrated at the moment. I believe the way forward is to keep it simple so everyone can get on board and not feel inadequate because they don't have a title or went to Uni. I'm at the point where I don't care about commentary, I want to participate in constructive action. I would like people with platforms to start asking basic questions to the politicians so the politicians have to give basic answers. For example, let's help Tanya Plibersek who is struggling with her decision to protect takayna, the lungs of the planet in Tasmania. We use our compassion and say. "You seem to be struggling with your decision to either protect the lungs of the planet or allow the lungs of the planet to be destroyed so that people can buy more mobile phones." No need for academic language, scientific research. Just a simple question that, in its simplicity, illustrates the absurdity of the situation. Keeping it simple and "compassionate" means everyone can comprehend and anticipate an answer. Plain speaking and calling bullshit when those who will feel intimidated will try and discredit plain speak by labelling it racist or Green or some such perceived derogatory term.
I’m loving being part of your book process and thank you for allowing us to tag along.
Have you heard of Bret Weinstein, he is an ex college professor of biology, host of the DarkHorse podcast and recent interviewee on The Diary of a CEO YouTube and podcast. Mr Weinstein makes a very good point about solar flares that could knock out entire continents electrical systems, which made me realise how valuable we are without electricity…
Here is south east Queensland we ‘storm prepare’ every summer and ready for black outs that could last a week, or more, but what happened if we didn’t get power back for a year? He made so many good points, I can’t cover them all, but what would happen to the climate crisis, if we lost the ability to make and store electricity?
Yes, I'm aware of the Weinstein brothers. Sadly, they are quite dangerous operators in the main - they fuel and spread wrong science about a range of things. I've not heard him talk on solar flares, per se, however.
Thanks for the reply :) It’s the first time I’ve come across either brother and my first impression was, this guy is a little too radical for me. But he did provide good points to consider.
Also in Queensland - it seems the storms are becoming more inevitable every year. We invested in a battery to store the energy from our solar system so it can provide some backup, but I imagine at some point that would also become futile.
To the point about what would happen if we lost all ability to make and store electricity, perhaps it would be the catalyst for regeneration of the earth. A hard reset. I think it would also cause a hard reset of humanity - I can't imagine we would recalibrate sensibly and calmly. It reminds me of a TV series called 'Revolution' from quite a few years ago, the premise being a 'global blackout' with all electricity and machinery simply stopping one day. Anarchy, civil war, collapse - unfortunately all too believable in our present day.
In Hawthorne... near the river. While we have been safe from floods, insurance premiums have become insane. Another fallout from the climate crisis. I have family in the Gold Coast hinterland who had zero power for weeks after the Christmas storm last year.
Sorry, I promise this will be my last comment for the day but I just have to share my vision. I think I've had a major moment. The global movement could be just that "Picnic with a Placard". The placard has to be relevant to the location and saying something to saving the planet (don't want to confuse the issue). Can you imagine? The Chinese sitting in Tianeman Square having a picnic? People blocking traffic across Sydney Harbour Bridge while they enjoy a picnic? Bobbing around in dingies on the Great Barrier Reef while having a picnic? Dangling their feet over the edge of a waterfall at Kakadu while having a picnic? Sitting in a bomb crater in the Ukraine, having a picnic? Sitting in the Amazon having a picnic? Iconic "natural" locations - endless opportunities. Love and best wishes to all!
Don't apologise!!! With all movements the best idea is for an everyday person to just start. This is how all movements get off the ground. I think ppl often want to do the shortcut (get George Clooney on board)...but the research shows change happens from grass roots up.
Research also shows mass movements are increasingly hard...and not always appropriate. Lots of people doing localised things works most effectively
Yay I was so excited to see this email on a random Sunday night, it is such a privilege to watch the book evolve. I was just thinking about the point that Devon makes that you mention: Those of us living in the privileged world are ill equipped to handle discomfort. I totally agree but I also wonder if we are equally ill-equipped to handle too much comfort as well. I like to imagine in the face of collapse that us humans don't roll over and give up but instead we embrace the changes and that the discomfort (depending on the level of course) is actually the thing that gives us that sense of purpose and meaning that we are all so desperately craving. I guess only time will tell. Thanks for this bonus email Sarah x
Very random Sunday night (Australian time) thing...I meant for it to go out tomorrow (Monday morning). Sigh, I'm just not great with tech/detail stuff like this.
I'm reading this one wild and precious life again. I bought it when it first came out. Oh boy do I feel lucky to own one of the originals. I hope you get your books back soon x
Hmmmm, unlikely. It's going to be a practice in letting go! x
Oh Sarah. You relaunching TOWAPL again and then Booktopia going bust!!! That is too ironic.
I ordered and received a latter copy (my first copy was digital) to support your worthy offerings. Will definitely buy you a coffee.
Such a practice in letting go.
Yes...and the company was rescued...and I thought my $$ and books would be saved...however as per an update I give in tomorrow's post...it's not looking good. Hmmmm.
Thanks for your concern!
https://www.huffpost.com/entry/facing-extinction-humans-animals-plants-species_n_5d2ddc04e4b0a873f6420bd3
Amazing this beautiful essay was written 5 years ago. Corey is referenced here too. As is Joanna Macey. So much more fodder here for you Sarah. But alas - we’re far beyond needing any more ‘proof’ of our un-stoppable spiral towards extinction.
This is the first time I’ve commented here throughout your serialisation process Sarah (although as you know - I’ve weighed-in on many discussions prior to this venture).
But yeah, I’ve just been quietly watching and waiting from the sidelines this time. Every time I’ve attempted to contribute something, I’ve just felt mute, and then retreated again.
I feel our collapsing world has often rendered me speechless. I often feel beyond (or perhaps lost for) words.
For me personally, I need to start really crying (even more). I need to ‘feel into’ rather than intellectualise this. I found myself crying in the first episode of “We are the Great Turning”. Because there is still SO much beauty in our world, and in relationships, and I love my life - this incredible miracle of human experience/existence.
I feel so blessed to have wondered and wandered through so many beautiful places during my 45-years on this particular planet.
I have met so many wonderful humans and cultivated so many incredible friendships in my life travels.
I now live each day like it might be my last. I pause longer when I feel welcomed sunshine on my skin. I sit on the grass, and I observe the comings-and-goings of many other species around me…some so tiny I have to crouch right down to watch them.
None of us ever know when our time here is up. We never have. So right now, I will roll back over and cuddle my beautiful 6yo sleeping daughter who still crawls into my bed at some stage every night. She breathes deeply and innocently. And if/when I wake to see the sun_rise again…I shall live and love with everything I’ve got ❤️ xx
Thank you for that link, Claire.
And your words. Your thoughts re feeling into v intellectualising it struck me. I needed to be reminded of this myself.
I love this, thank you
I really love this project. Despite the heaviness of the subject matter, it's beyond refreshing to read and consider everything in a more substantive format. With intelligent and thought provoking discourse. I have to discipline myself not to read commentary on social media - it just makes me sad and angry.
On the Booktopia situation - I'm so sorry to hear about what has happened. However, I also just read that they have been rescued!! They've been bought by digiDirect and according to the news reports, can start trading again immediately. I hope that means all of your books and at least some of your $$ earned will be on their way to you soon!
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-08-19/booktopia-sold-to-online-electronics-store-digidirect/104241650
Wow - I hadn't seen this. Thank you. I'll now look into what this means. Nice news to wake to here in Paris.
You asked about the loss of meaning in the fertility collapse. Raising my kids as a uk migrant to Australia with an Australian hubby who worked extremely long days was challenging. We had no family in the state. What got me through was the Maternal and child health running a mother’s group, story time at the library, parks, being in a walkable suburb, the community crèche and kindergarten. In other words relationships of skill and care and therefore love and depth. But what do these precious children grow up into? Necrocapitalism. Everything is for profit and extraction. Why bother? Unless we can feel our way through to grief, acknowledgment and repair, we’re toast.
Your kids are lucky to have a mum who thinks this way, Fran.
Thank you, thank you, thank you Sarah. On the topic of the book serialisation, I just feel so grateful that you made the choice to go this way. You knew this couldn't wait. It had to get out into the world NOW. It's so wonderful to learn about how these discussions are helping you shape the book.
What jumped out to me: "how the need for meaning is affecting the fertility problem" - it makes so much sense that there is more to this than just economics (of course there are the endocrine disrupting chemicals as well). I would love to hear you/ others expand on this idea more.
And the dot points from the Devon post. Absolutely went straight to the heart of it all. I'll be diving into that article tomorrow.
Sorry to hear about the booktopia situation. I hope you draw strength from knowing just how crucial the work you are doing now has become. X
Thanks Hayley...re the booktopia thing - I'm reading it as a perfect reflection of where the world is at. Equally, this forum is too!
Oh my gosh Sarah I was horrified to read about what’s happened to your books with Booktopia and so glad to read that this current writing project is as enjoyable for you as it is for me (and others I’m sure!).
Yes I love the idea of the edited chapters and writing notes every few months.
I loved Devon Price’s points, particularly this one “The world after capitalisation will not be a war zone. It will be a long, vulnerable night on the porch with your friends.” It reminds me of the final scene in Don’t Look Up – that’s how I would want to spend my final hours.
I am getting the same messages over and over again. Community.
Yes please! I would love you to have Corey Bradshaw on Wild!
Yes the final scene in DLU...I thought the same.
I love this iterative approach, how much traction your building, and being part of the conversation.
Really sorry to hear about the debacle with your other book!
And Devon Price. What wisdom. And echoes again of Sharon Blackie's book Hagitude that I'm reading alongside this one. She too talks about coming into ourselves, albeit as an aging thing. But collapse, mortality, all related as we've been exploring. Devon, and others talk about masking as a neurodivergent phenomenon. But reading Sharon's observations I wonder if we all mask.
I think I need to read that book, thank you.
And again, please don't take offence Sarah, but perhaps this is where you can use your research more actively than writing another book. Through your hard work and tenancity you have created association with some really influential people. People with platforms put there by the common people. Maybe it's time for the Leonardo di Caprio's, the George Clooney's, the Cate Blanchett's to come down amongst the people who gave them their platforms and use their influence to get the attention of those in power. After all, don't the polies love to align themselves with the celebrities for the ultimate media opportunity? Imagine if we had a global picnic day and the images of the Palestinians sitting amonst the rubble in Ghaza coming together as a community enjoying "a picnic with placards"? There are so many dynamic solutions to our current crisis - we just have to make it look exciting and trendy to be part of the solution.
Yes, I know what you mean. I do my best, but I LOSE followers when I do speak out. People THINKk they want famous ppl or influencers to take a stand...but it doesn't play out this way. Again...moloch.
Choice paralysis becomes apathy. How many of us wish that we had your discipline and determination to utilise a comfortable financial situation to pursue our activism and " ... live how we feel we should be living, morally. And inspire ppl with our actions (and the joy we derive from living in congruence with nature!)" This is no longer a reality for the masses. The reason I am so frustrated and jaded and feeling apathetic is because it is not possible for me to do as you, quite rightly suggest, "live how we feel". As an empath, my healing/recharging place has always been nature. However, to get to nature I have to drive my car (conflicted), observe the roadkill - wombats, kangaroos (angry, sad), and when I get to my place of nature observe that the trees are dying because their canopies are burning from the intensity of the Sun because of the depletion of the ozone (depressed). I volunteer for Koala Clancy where we plant trees in and around the You Yangs near Geelong in Victoria. There are now only three koalas in the You Yangs which are open to the general public who bring their dogs, mountain bike, drive their cars to the top of the mountain to sit in their cars and enjoy the views. There are no rubbish bins and people are asked to take their rubbish home with them. So now the You Yangs are scattered with dog poo or dog poo in little green baggies, because no-one wants to have a poo bag in their car on their return journey. The park is littered with broken glass from yobbos smashing their beer bottles or pretty coloured alcoholic drink bottles on the majestic granite rocks. And when I do find a solitary corner of the park to try and take some deep breathes, I can guarantee a carload of noisy, excited people will pull up next to me. And so, having set out to try and recharge my batteries to get through another working week, I get into my car (further conflicted), cry all the way home (further depressed) and drag myself through another working week, most mornings wishing that I hadn't woken up. And this is not just me as a 54 year old female. So many of my friends and associates in this age group with a fondness for nature have said the same thing - I wouldn't mind if I didn't wake up in the morning. These are the good people - the Jedis. And we are losing them. I believe that all these amazing environmentally concerned NFPs, organisations, advocates, lobbyists, scientists, experts need to come together as one - because individuals don't know who to align themselves with to do the greatest good and do it now. If we could all come together as one, even if it is just for one day, even if it just starts out in one State or one Country to perhaps even inspire a global movement - if we could all down tools for one day and come together in a peaceful gathering to show our strength - the numbers would far outweigh those in power and would highlight the appetite for dynamic, positive, inclusive societal change and that we are champing at the bit to help those in power create sustainable, safe, exciting, resilient communities. Do you think this could be possible?
Hi Kylie...sadly I don't think this is possible. We are too deep in the moloch (see an upcoming chapter)....and it's no one's fault. Rather than hoping (and then being horribly disappointed), we are better off putting our efforts into living as true as we can - in congruence with nature, etc. Maybe try mixing it up. Catch a train to a forest you've never heard of and just observe it for what it is. Play. Come to see beauty in life's desire to correct from the destruction and so on. Also, if your peace is disturbed by some yobbos, at 54 I think we have full permission to firmly ask them to go away.
Also it's the intolerance thing that comes w menopause
I read your comment. And HEAR SEE and FEEL YOU
Why is it so hard Now to find quiet, unbroken, u rubbished places..
It seems everywhere.
Not just where u r
Don't stop.
Keep going into nature.
Hug a tree. Swim in the ocean. Barefoot the ground.
We need it. I agree with all your words and I too, am over the yobbos who have little care..
Recently I saw my first turtle, in the oceans of qld. She was beautiful, yet dead floating into the water,...people just shrugged and walked off
I said " we did that " " humans did that " ...gosh:(
Kylie, I am similar. And hear of many not caring if they wake up, or end game and glad it's nearly over..
There ARE enough lanterns to keep us afloat, change the us versus them thing..
We are still alive aren't we?
We need you, us, other women feelers as shitty as that is. I reckon ita better to feel, even the grotesque and heartbreaking to become totally numb, like many
Thanks for all your words
Thanks for yours!
Thanks for recommending Nate's chat with Corey Bradshaw. The depth and breadth of his knowledge is astounding! I'd love to hear him on Wild. The bit that finally made me cry was near the end, when he aled about his 17 year old daughter and her generation, how they don't want to drink or do drugs or drive, 'they're just focusing on being good people'. There's something heartbreaking beautiful about that. Dealing with a terrifying future and taking the high road!
He has just agreed to come onto Wild. Do you have any questions you'd like me to put to him?
That's great! 😊 Two areas that stood out for me were how little is known about insect populations and projections for extinction.....and his take on human population projections, given he said fertility rates will increase with infant mortality increase
I guess I'm wondering what are the most likely scenarios for our future
It was a really great chat with him and Nate. I felt Nate disagreed on some things, and I similarly wonder about fertility rate increasing. Curious about microplastics impact on that one!
I think it's one of those things where every expert is a little bit niche, you aren't accounting for all variables, only the ones in your lane.
Like the comment AFTER capitalism...
A long night on porch w friends...
Personally, I feel grayling has a crush on you :)
You are the epitome for intelligent women trudging through the snow barefoot regardless, of what's biting at your heels...
Many of us squash our intelligence...as I have found brains get you nowhere...people don't want complex and intelligent...
I reckon pain is a good way to get you in the moment. And we can distract distract distract to NOT feel it until it's so fucking evident...it has to be dealt with..
How are so many heads in the sand still?
A woman I met lost her home in the floods, then a divorce etc etc...then had to move into fri3nds shed because of housing crisis..where she felt the husband didn't want her there...
An awkward place to be...
It's the worst. When you feel in the way, yet have nowhere else to go..
Anyway. She's just been informed she has pancreatic cancer
A deadly beast. It got my uncle. In 3 months, he was gone...
We met and did an ocean dip and recalled an old Australia, where people generally helped and trusted one another...
We also spoke of the scrappy menopause and loss of physicality that goes with it..
So, I get a text. I have pancreatic cancer. And in immense pain...
:(:(:(:(
SEE WHAT STRESS AND OVERLOAD DOES!?
PERSONALLY, I AM SICK OF GOOD WOMEN BE DESTROYED AND LET DOWN BY CURRENT NON SYSTEMS...
those who are single weirdest get it.
Anyway. Sun is out. Today I am alive.
May you all be happy and well and not have to look too hard for glimmers, because you are one. X
Yep - pain gets us into the moment.
Re people don't want complex and intelligent...certainly - however, let's just impose it on the world anyway! Good women have to express.
Also sarah..
How about Naomi Klein on a podcast
Doppelganger..
She is a good woman. Love if u can connect ...x
Thankyou x
Sar ... I'm cross for you that you've been hit by the Booktopia crash. Praying favour over you with the administrators/future buyers. Often with these situations it's a long waiting game. 🙏
Thank you for sharing your iterations especially those influent by your sub stack peeps.
Big love x
Your prayers worked!
I'm guessing you saw this then....
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-08-19/booktopia-sold-to-online-electronics-store-digidirect/104241650
Furthermore, having stepped out of the shower which is where i do my best thinking (perhaps don't go visual with that imagery - LOL) the time for constructive action is now
Because, as noted by historians and Meg Wheatley, the destructive action will commence and we are already seeing evidence of that in London and, closer to home, Melbourne with the Neo-Nazis confronting the Pro Palestinian supporters.
With you Kylie...we can actually do pro-social prepping, as Nate Hagens calls it.
Yes I'm feeling the call for constructive action. Reading this book has been wonderful and enlightening but I'm wondering where to from here (I probably should wait until the books finished). I have been looking inward lately and quite frankly I am sick of myself. I like feeling like I am a part of something bigger. I love the discussion in this comments section (so many wise people) and would love to hear about how everyone is dealing with this. The big, small, individual or collective changes or mindset shifts that everyone is making.
I'm going to sound a bit grumpy but I'm extremely frustrated at the moment. I believe the way forward is to keep it simple so everyone can get on board and not feel inadequate because they don't have a title or went to Uni. I'm at the point where I don't care about commentary, I want to participate in constructive action. I would like people with platforms to start asking basic questions to the politicians so the politicians have to give basic answers. For example, let's help Tanya Plibersek who is struggling with her decision to protect takayna, the lungs of the planet in Tasmania. We use our compassion and say. "You seem to be struggling with your decision to either protect the lungs of the planet or allow the lungs of the planet to be destroyed so that people can buy more mobile phones." No need for academic language, scientific research. Just a simple question that, in its simplicity, illustrates the absurdity of the situation. Keeping it simple and "compassionate" means everyone can comprehend and anticipate an answer. Plain speaking and calling bullshit when those who will feel intimidated will try and discredit plain speak by labelling it racist or Green or some such perceived derogatory term.
I’m loving being part of your book process and thank you for allowing us to tag along.
Have you heard of Bret Weinstein, he is an ex college professor of biology, host of the DarkHorse podcast and recent interviewee on The Diary of a CEO YouTube and podcast. Mr Weinstein makes a very good point about solar flares that could knock out entire continents electrical systems, which made me realise how valuable we are without electricity…
Here is south east Queensland we ‘storm prepare’ every summer and ready for black outs that could last a week, or more, but what happened if we didn’t get power back for a year? He made so many good points, I can’t cover them all, but what would happen to the climate crisis, if we lost the ability to make and store electricity?
Yes, I'm aware of the Weinstein brothers. Sadly, they are quite dangerous operators in the main - they fuel and spread wrong science about a range of things. I've not heard him talk on solar flares, per se, however.
Thanks for the reply :) It’s the first time I’ve come across either brother and my first impression was, this guy is a little too radical for me. But he did provide good points to consider.
Also in Queensland - it seems the storms are becoming more inevitable every year. We invested in a battery to store the energy from our solar system so it can provide some backup, but I imagine at some point that would also become futile.
To the point about what would happen if we lost all ability to make and store electricity, perhaps it would be the catalyst for regeneration of the earth. A hard reset. I think it would also cause a hard reset of humanity - I can't imagine we would recalibrate sensibly and calmly. It reminds me of a TV series called 'Revolution' from quite a few years ago, the premise being a 'global blackout' with all electricity and machinery simply stopping one day. Anarchy, civil war, collapse - unfortunately all too believable in our present day.
I tend to agree - "how we handle it" is going to be the issue, not the actual climate etc calamity.
P.s where in qld?
In Hawthorne... near the river. While we have been safe from floods, insurance premiums have become insane. Another fallout from the climate crisis. I have family in the Gold Coast hinterland who had zero power for weeks after the Christmas storm last year.
That's good. Ar least u have a home
Sorry, I promise this will be my last comment for the day but I just have to share my vision. I think I've had a major moment. The global movement could be just that "Picnic with a Placard". The placard has to be relevant to the location and saying something to saving the planet (don't want to confuse the issue). Can you imagine? The Chinese sitting in Tianeman Square having a picnic? People blocking traffic across Sydney Harbour Bridge while they enjoy a picnic? Bobbing around in dingies on the Great Barrier Reef while having a picnic? Dangling their feet over the edge of a waterfall at Kakadu while having a picnic? Sitting in a bomb crater in the Ukraine, having a picnic? Sitting in the Amazon having a picnic? Iconic "natural" locations - endless opportunities. Love and best wishes to all!
Don't apologise!!! With all movements the best idea is for an everyday person to just start. This is how all movements get off the ground. I think ppl often want to do the shortcut (get George Clooney on board)...but the research shows change happens from grass roots up.
Research also shows mass movements are increasingly hard...and not always appropriate. Lots of people doing localised things works most effectively