Building the new ...

I saw this quote recently and was struck by how it aligned so well with two of Joanna Macy's three dimensions of the Great Turning. She speaks of three ways to contribute to the shifts that are taking place within each of us and within our socities, cultures and institutions. For more detailed information check out Joanna's amazing website. 

In brief the three dimesions are:

1. Actions to slow the damage to Earth and its beings

• Documenting and the ecological and health effects of the Industrial Growth Society;
• Lobbying or protesting against the World Trade Organization and the international trade agreements that endanger ecosystems and undermine social and economic justice;
• Blowing the whistle on illegal and unethical corporate practices;
• Blockading and conducting vigils at places of ecological destruction, such as old-growth forests under threat of clear-cutting or at nuclear dumping grounds.

Work of this kind buys time. It saves some lives, and some ecosystems, species, and cultures, as well as some of the gene pool, for the sustainable society to come. But it is insufficient to bring that society about.

2. Analysis of structural causes and the creation of structural alternatives

• Teach-ins and study groups on the Industrial Growth Society;
• Strategies and programs for nonviolent, citizen-based defense;
• Reduction of reliance on fossil and nuclear fuels and conversion to renewable energy sources;
• Collaborative living arrangements such as co-housing and eco-villages; 
• Community gardens, consumer cooperatives, community-supported agriculture, watershed restoration, local currencies...

 3. Shift in Consciousness

These structural alternatives must mirror what we want and how we relate to Earth and each other. They arise in the resurgence of wisdom traditions, reminding us again that our world is a sacred whole, worthy of adoration and service.
The many forms and ingredients of this dimension include:

• general living systems theory;
• deep ecology and the deep, long-range ecology movement;
• Creation Spirituality and Liberation Theology;
• Engaged Buddhism and similar currents in other traditions;
• the resurgence of shamanic traditions;
• ecofeminism;
• ecopsychology;
• the simple living movement.

These activities help us cope with our fear and rage, stop us from sticking our heads in the sand or pointing the finger of blame at others. They help us overcome feelings of panic or paralysis.