By Ann Kreilkamp | April 9, 2014

On the one hand, humanity is very likely pell mell bent on a course towards possible extinction in the near future. On the other hand, “there is a more beautiful world that our hearts know is possible.” Both statements are “true.” When we learn to hold and honor both realizations in our hearts consistently, we invite an alchemical reaction. A fire is ignited, a passion, to remake both our inner lives and our outer world; and to love and work with others who both recognize our precarious situation on this still beautiful Mother Earth and and who honor the living breathing life force within us, the internal greening that pushes up and out of every creature each year when winter gives way to spring.

We who live in the northern hemisphere: look outside. Smell the fertility in the air! Hear hear! Geese flying overhead, two by two, honking; brilliantly colored songbirds in trees, rejoicing! Water rushing, circling, spreading! Plants pushing up, seeking sun! As long as we are alive and breathing, the world renews itself. Take nothing for granted. Nothing. Live, clear-eyed, knowing our possible extinction, while inhabiting the joyous air of utter expectancy. BOTH.

Then notice your life. For it will open.

Carolyn Baker‘s book review of Charles Eisenstein‘s new book is unusually trenchant.