Static-Free Trails: On Amusement, Power, and the Hunger Beneath the Hunger

AGRICULTURE, AMUSEMENT, ENTERTAINMENT, HUNGER, JFK, Nature, Organic Farming, STATIC, SUBSIDIES, THOMAS JEFFERSN, TREES, WOODROW WILSON, , ,

Alice Dunbar-Nelson once wrote, “The American public does not want to be uplifted, ennobled—it wants to be amused.”

A poet, journalist, teacher, and political activist, Alice belonged to the first generation born free in the South after the Civil War. She helped shape the Harlem Renaissance and understood, with unsettling clarity, the forces shaping American consciousness. From where I stand, she was a visionary. And I often wonder what she would think if she were here today.

Who doesn’t want to escape? You work all day at a job that drains more than it gives, for a boss who doesn’t recognize your brilliance. You come home too tired to cook, so you toss something lifeless into the microwave or reach for ice cream to soothe that ineffable hunger nothing seems to touch. Even when you know the darker truths—the consolidation of our food system, the patenting of life forms, the quiet march toward corporate control of nourishment itself—facing it all can feel too daunting.

A recent New York Times report noted that Americans now spend more on entertainment than on gasoline, household furnishings, or clothing. The Twentieth Century Fund estimates that total recreation spending reaches around forty billion dollars a year. I suspect that’s conservative. We are, as Alice suggested, on an amusement ride—and many have no intention of getting off. And perhaps that’s convenient for the small handful of men who benefit from a population too entertained to resist. I contemplate this as I tear myself away from a recorded episode of American Idol. I’m not immune to the pull. But I refuse to go quietly.

William Engdahl’s Seeds of Destruction details how four Anglo-American agribusiness giants seek global dominance by patenting genetically modified life forms. Their aim: control the world’s food supply—and, by extension, our lives. Government subsidies for industrial agriculture in North America, Western Europe, and East Asia exceed a billion dollars a day. A billion. And I can assure you the organic farmer isn’t the one cashing those checks. Why not? Inquiring minds—including mine—want to know.

I’ve ordered Engdahl’s book, eager to see whether his findings echo what I discovered during my ten years in Washington. History has a way of whispering warnings, and I’m drawn to the voices of those who saw the machinery of power more clearly than most.

President Woodrow Wilson, reflecting on the passage of the Federal Reserve Act, confessed:

“I am a most unhappy man; I have unwittingly ruined my country… A great industrial nation is controlled by its system of credit… We have come to be one of the worst ruled, one of the most completely controlled and dominated governments in the civilized world.”

Thomas Jefferson warned, long before Wilson:

“If the American people ever allow private banks to control the issue of their currency… their children will wake up homeless on the continent their fathers conquered.”

Sometimes, the weight of these truths makes me want to drown myself in “fun.” But the fun eventually feels shallow. Empty. What should I be doing with my time? What do any of us have the energy to do? Most Americans work long hours for too little pay, too undernourished to complain, let alone to fight for change. And that emptiness inside—the one no entertainment or processed food can satisfy—grows louder.

Entertainment occasionally reveals more truth than it intends. In House of Cards, an irate citizen is handcuffed to a light pole, screaming into the void. Francis Underwood approaches and says, “Nobody can hear you, nobody cares about you, nothing will come of your screaming.” Fiction, yes—but fiction with teeth.

Our children are waking up homeless on the continent their fathers conquered. And the question remains: who has the power to take the issuing power from the banks and restore it to the people? Kennedy spoke of doing so. His voice was loud. And look what it cost him. No president since has dared to touch the subject. And me? I’m just another sound bite lost in the static.

So I step away from the static.

I leave technology behind and disappear into the woods, where the creaking of trees and the soft shuffle of animals remind me what real nourishment feels like. There, I can breathe again. There, I can satisfy that ineffable hunger. In the meantime, I make choices—small, responsible choices that shape the quality of my life. What a luxury it is to choose how I spend my time. I don’t take that lightly. Isn’t that what we all want? To do what we want, when we want?

Eating locally and organically whenever possible keeps my body strong enough to pursue the things that matter. Hugging a tree—yes, I’m proudly a tree hugger—grounds me in a way no entertainment ever could. Leaning against a trunk, arms open, eyes closed, I breathe as the tree breathes: one long, slow, 24‑hour breath. In that moment, my power returns. My compassion returns. My clarity returns.

It’s the little choices we make every day that shape the world we live in. Choices that feed both body and soul are rare in this static-filled age. But they exist. And they matter.

Alice Dunbar-Nelson understood the seduction of amusement—and the danger of it. She saw how easily a nation could be lulled into complacency. Yet she also believed in the power of individual agency, of art, of truth-telling.

If she were here today, I think she’d recognize the landscape. I think she’d recognize the hunger. And I think she’d tell us that stepping out of the static—into the woods, into nourishment, into awareness—is not an escape.

It’s resistance.

Happy Static-Free Trails.

 

Food at the Core: Transforming Systems for a Thriving World

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I’m always excited to get the Union of Concerned Scientists magazine. Recently, Darya Minovi’s story in Volume 25, Summer 2025, about RFK especially caught my eye, and encouraged my correspondence with her. I’m a fan of RFK. However, I’m not so fond of his radical decisions to dismiss the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention scientists.


As I set pen to paper today, I am reminded of the countless conversations and silent
reflections that have accompanied my journey and have taught me that our lives are
woven from choices—small and grand, public and private—that echo far beyond the
present moment. Through these years, I’ve come to appreciate the extraordinary
complexity of the food systems that underpin our well-being, and the immense
responsibility we share in stewarding them wisely.


I write to you today with a heart full of concern and hope, reflecting on how decades
spent in the fields, conference rooms, and bustling aisles of markets have shaped my
Understanding of wellness, food, and the forces that transform them. The pursuit of
optimum well-being, both personal and collective, has been my compass, guiding me
through triumphs and setbacks, and inspiring me to seek new ways forward.
In tracing the arc of my own experience, I have witnessed firsthand the tension between
tradition and progress—between the wisdom handed down through generations and the
urgency of adapting to new realities. It is in the delicate balance of these forces that
meaningful change is born, often sparked by moments of clarity in the midst of
uncertainty.

This journey has taught me to listen, not only to the experts whose data shape our
policies, but also to the quiet voices in rural villages, urban centers, and the vibrant
crossroads where cultures meet and mingle. Their stories remind me that the substance
Wellness is not measured solely by statistics, but by the quality of
connection—between people, land, and the values we choose to uphold.

As I reflect upon these interwoven relationships, I am struck by how easily the threads
can fray—how the pressures of modern life, economic necessity, and shifting cultural
landscapes can erode the very connections we most need to preserve. There have
been winters when the fields lay dormant and hope seemed scarce, and summers
where abundance brought its dilemmas of distribution and access. Through it all,
I’ve learned that sustaining a vision for wellness requires more than optimism; it calls for
a pragmatic embrace of complexity and a willingness to confront uncomfortable truths.
We are called to look beyond the surface, to recognize not only what is grown and
traded but also how these processes shape the communities and ecosystems that 
support us. In this regard, the stories of those whose hands tend the soil and those
whose voices rarely find the microphone have become my teachers. They have
challenged me to reconsider the definition of progress, to ask whether our metrics of
success truly reflect the richness of lived experience.

It is in moments of dialogue, where perspectives collide and cooperation emerges from
tension, that I have witnessed the real power of collective action. Whether in informal
gatherings beneath the shade of old trees or structured forums convened to debate the
future of agriculture, I have seen the transformative potential of a shared vision. These
spaces, where difference is not merely tolerated but valued, have shown me that
change, though often slow, is possible when rooted in trust and mutual respect.
Yet I am mindful that our work is far from finished. The complexity of food systems
resists easy solutions, and the competing interests at play can stifle progress or divert it
down unintended paths. Nonetheless, I remain convinced that the path forward lies in
deepening our commitment to dialogue, learning, and adaptation. We must invest in
listening, in seeking out those perspectives that challenge our assumptions, and in
cultivating the patience required for actual systemic change.

As every season brings new challenges, so too does it offer opportunities to renew our
shared purpose and reimagine what is possible. The journey continues, shaped by the
courage to question and the humility to learn.

Our world stands at a crossroads, where the choices we make—individually and
institutionally—will determine not only the health of our generation but also the legacy
we leave to those who follow. It is evident that actual progress demands more than
isolated improvements; it requires a tapestry of efforts, interwoven across sectors and
sustained over time. We must call upon both wisdom and innovation, drawing lessons
from our past and crafting bold visions for the future.

Yet, as we contemplate the way forward, I find myself wrestling with a persistent
question: how can we transcend the boundaries of traditional thinking to embrace a truly
holistic vision of health? Our policies and practices must reflect the intricate
interdependence between human vitality and the ecosystems that sustain us.
Regrettably, too often, institutional silos and short-term incentives have fragmented our
collective power, diluting the transformative potential of well-intentioned reforms.
To build genuine resilience, we must cultivate alliances across disciplines and
generations. Scientists, farmers, activists, educators, and policymakers must unite
around common goals—restoring the integrity of our food supply, regenerating soils,
and reshaping the narrative around nutrition and disease prevention. Equally,
communities must be empowered with the knowledge and tools to reclaim agency over
the choices that define their daily lives.

This calls not for incremental adjustments, but for a paradigm shift—a willingness to
examine the invisible threads that connect food systems to public health outcomes,
environmental stewardship, and social equity. Only through this broader perspective can
We hope to address the converging crises of chronic disease, environmental
degradation, and social fragmentation that threaten our shared future.

I believe the answers lie not only in scientific progress but also in the wisdom etched
into our agricultural and culinary traditions. The Industrial Age, with its marvels and
efficiencies, ushered in unprecedented change—bringing abundance to many, but also
severing our connection to the origins of what we eat and how we care for the land. As
a result, the question of nourishment goes beyond calories and cures; it stretches into
the fabric of how we produce, distribute, and value food in our society.
The challenge before us, then, is not simply to treat illness or manage symptoms, but to
reimagine the systems that create health—in our soil, our food supply, our
neighborhoods, and our institutions. If we are to bridge the gap between knowledge and
action, public will, and policy, we must foster a deeper understanding of the invisible
links that bind personal well-being to planetary health.

This is no small task. It requires us to question not just what fills our plates, but also the
stories, incentives, and power structures that shape those choices. It asks us to listen to
farmers and elders, scientists and youth; to honor evidence while holding space for lived
experience. Above all, it demands that we resist the temptation of technocratic fixes in
favor of holistic, context-sensitive solutions that nurture both body and community,
resilience and renewal.

It is within this context that I recall a pivotal moment—one that bridged my ideals with
real-world action. Not long ago, I found myself immersed in advocacy alongside a
coalition of like-minded individuals. Together, we lobbied for food systems that honored
both human dignity and ecological integrity. Our gatherings ranged from spirited town
halls to intimate kitchen-table discussions, always centered on the conviction that food
is not merely a commodity but a living narrative, one that connects farm, family, and
future.

These efforts did not exist in a vacuum. Each campaign, whether successful or fraught
with resistance, underscored the importance of persistence and coalition-building. It
became clear to me that sustainable transformation relies on more than expert opinions
or regulatory changes; it flourishes when communities reclaim their role as stewards
and storytellers of their nourishment. Through trial and error, I learned that the
smallest grassroots initiatives—school garden projects, local markets, nutrition
workshops—could ignite a ripple effect, shaping policies that once seemed immovable.

And yet, progress is neither linear nor guaranteed. There were moments of doubt when
the machinery of the food industry seemed unyielding, and when the allure of
convenience threatened to eclipse the slower work of regeneration. But in witnessing
the courage of fellow advocates—farmers choosing regenerative methods, parents
demanding transparency, young people reimagining urban spaces—I found hope
renewed. Each voice, each action, contributed to a tapestry of change, woven from both
aspiration and experience.

What emerged from these lived experiences was a more profound conviction that the
movement for healthier, more sustainable food systems cannot be relegated to
policymakers or experts alone. Its true momentum is carried by a chorus of everyday
choices—small but determined acts that, when multiplied across communities, become
a groundswell for transformation. I have seen firsthand that when people rediscover the
relationship between food, place, and possibility, they begin to reclaim their power as
architects of well-being.

This journey, however, is not without its paradoxes. Even as community-led initiatives
take root and awareness of nutrition deepens, we find ourselves navigating a labyrinth
of obstacles: aggressive marketing by food conglomerates, regulatory loopholes, and a
steady stream of ultra-processed products crowding store shelves. The battle for
Nourishing, transparent, and ethically produced food is ongoing and often uphill,
requiring both vigilance and creativity from advocates and consumers alike.
Yet hope persists in quiet revolutions—a neighborhood garden flourishing in a food
desert, a school curriculum reimagined to teach children the origins of their meals, a
small producer choosing transparency over profit. These are the stories that fuel my
resolve: reminders that change is neither abstract nor unattainable, but grows from the
soil of collective intention and action. Suppose we continue to amplify these efforts, nurturing a food culture rooted in equity, ecology, and empowerment. In that case, we may yet tip the scales toward a future where the health of people and the planet are inseparable.
Yet for every story of progress and resilience, new challenges emerge at the
intersection of innovation and consumption. Our advances in food technology, once
heralded for solving scarcity and streamlining supply chains, now present a double–
edged sword. The very systems that promised to democratize abundance have also
distanced us from the essence of nourishment, introducing complexities and risks that
ripple across generations.

As food traditions evolve alongside scientific breakthroughs, society finds itself at a
crossroads: Will we continue to trade quality for convenience, flavor for familiarity, and
transparency for efficiency? Or can we reimagine a future where technological progress
works in harmony with nature and community values, rather than undermining them?
The answers hinge on our collective willingness to scrutinize not just the nutritional
content, but the very composition of what we consume—challenging us to look beyond
glossy advertisements and question the unseen costs embedded in modern diets.
I’m aware of the economic and political reasons why this epidemic is being silenced.
However, I’ve been privy to seeing enormous change while working inside just one
Costco. Thousands of consumers daily are reading labels and doing research into the
ingredients in food. Isn’t this where change often begins? People are making noise!
In the age of convenience, shelves in supermarkets gleam with a dazzling array of
processed foods, alluring in their packaging and promise of instant satisfaction. Yet
behind their tempting exteriors lies a troubling reality: many of these products are laden
with chemicals and ingredients that may pose significant risks to the health and well-
being of humanity. The omnipresence of such foods in modern diets has prompted
scientists, nutritionists, and concerned citizens alike to question the long-term
consequences for individuals.

The Rise of Chemical-Laden Foods
The industrialization of food production has revolutionized how we eat, providing access
to an abundance of affordable and shelf-stable products. However, this transformation
has come at a price. To extend shelf life, enhance flavor, improve texture, and
maintain visual appeal, manufacturers have increasingly relied on a multitude of
additives, preservatives, flavor enhancers, colorings, and chemicals. While some of
these substances have been deemed safe in small quantities, the cumulative effect of
chronic exposure through daily consumption is less well-understood and increasingly
worrisome.
The Prevalence of Additives
Food additives, from artificial sweeteners like aspartame and saccharin to colorants
such as Red 40 and Yellow 5, are now staples in many processed foods. Preservatives
like sodium benzoate, potassium sorbate, and BHA/BHT are used to prevent spoilage
and extend shelf life. Emulsifiers, stabilizers, and thickeners—like carrageenan and
polysorbate 80—are added to improve texture and consistency. These ingredients can
be found in everything from breakfast cereals and bread to canned soups and frozen
meals.
Yet, mounting evidence suggests that some additives may contribute to adverse health
effects. For example, specific artificial colors have been linked to behavioral issues in
children, while some preservatives are suspected of being carcinogenic or triggering
allergic reactions. In the rush to produce palatable and marketable foods, the potential
risks associated with long-term exposure are often overlooked, leaving consumers
vulnerable to a host of preventable ailments.

Ultra-Processed Ingredients: A Closer Look
Beyond additives, the very foundations of many processed foods are problematic. High-
Fructose corn syrup, hydrogenated oils, and refined grains dominate ingredient lists,
offering little nutritional value while increasing the risk of chronic diseases. The
excessive use of salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats not only masks the blandness of
processed foods but also conditions taste preferences, making it challenging for
individuals to enjoy whole, natural foods.

 High-Fructose Corn Syrup: Widely used as a sweetener, it is implicated in the
rise of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome.
 Hydrogenated Oils: These artificially modified fats—trans fats—are notorious for
their association with heart disease and inflammation.
 Refined Grains: Stripped of fiber and nutrients, refined flours contribute to blood
sugar spikes and nutrient deficiencies.
 Excess Sodium: Used to preserve and flavor, high sodium intake is a leading
cause of hypertension and cardiovascular disease.
 Artificial Flavors: Engineered to replicate natural tastes, these chemicals often
come with unknown long-term health consequences.
The Impact on Human Health
The health consequences of consuming foods overloaded with chemicals and
detrimental ingredients are far-reaching. Epidemiological studies show a correlation
between diets high in processed foods and increased rates of obesity, diabetes, heart
disease, certain cancers, and neurodevelopmental disorders. While causation can be
challenging to establish due to the complexity of diet and lifestyle factors, the associations
are robust enough to warrant concern.
Obesity and Metabolic Disorders

The prevalence of obesity has soared in recent decades, coinciding with increased
consumption of ultra-processed foods. High levels of sugar, unhealthy fats, and refined
carbohydrates contribute to excessive calorie intake, insulin resistance, and fat
accumulation. The body’s natural satiety signals are overridden by hyper-palatable
combinations of salt, sugar, and fat, leading to chronic overeating.
Cardiovascular Disease

Trans fats, excessive sodium, and added sugars are major culprits in the development
of cardiovascular disease. Studies have shown that diets rich in processed foods
elevate cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and triglycerides, increasing the risk of heart
attacks and strokes. The World Health Organization has called for the elimination of
industrial trans fats, yet they persist in many products due to lax regulations and
Industry resistance.
Cancer Risk
Some chemicals commonly found in processed foods have been classified as possible
or probable human carcinogens. For instance, nitrites and nitrates, used to cure meats,
can form carcinogenic compounds called nitrosamines. Artificial sweeteners and
preservatives have also been scrutinized for their potential links to certain cancers.
While regulatory agencies set maximum allowable limits, questions remain about the
cumulative effects of chronic, low-level exposure.
Neurodevelopmental and Behavioral Effects
There is growing concern about the impact of food additives on brain development and
behavior, especially in children. Artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives have been
implicated in attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and other
neurodevelopmental issues. Emerging research suggests that the gut-brain
axis—mediated by diet—may play a role in mood, cognition, and mental health
outcomes.
Societal and Environmental Consequences
Beyond personal health, the widespread consumption of chemically overloaded foods
has broader societal and environmental impacts. The demand for cheap, processed
ingredients drives monoculture agriculture, intensive livestock farming, and
unsustainable production practices. These systems contribute to soil depletion, water
pollution, loss of biodiversity, and greenhouse gas emissions, amplifying the
environmental footprint of our diets.
The Burden on Healthcare Systems
The medical costs associated with diet-related diseases are staggering. Treating
chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension places a heavy
burden on healthcare systems, diverting resources from preventative care and public
health initiatives. The economic impact is compounded by lost productivity, decreased
quality of life, and increased mortality rates.
Why Are Harmful Ingredients So Pervasive?
Profit motives, convenience, and regulatory loopholes often drive the proliferation of harmful ingredients in food. Food companies prioritize cost reduction and mass appeal, engineering products that are addictive and inexpensive to produce. Regulatory agencies may lack the resources or political will to rigorously test additives, relying on industry-funded studies and outdated safety assessments. The result is a marketplace flooded with products that prioritize shelf stability and profit over health and well-being.
Marketing and Misinformation
Aggressive marketing strategies further perpetuate the consumption of detrimental
foods. Glossy advertisements target children and adults alike, presenting processed
foods as wholesome, fun, and essential parts of daily life. Nutritional information is often
obfuscated with misleading claims and confusing labels, making it difficult for
consumers to make informed choices.
Moving Toward Healthier Choices
Addressing the crisis of food overloaded with chemicals and harmful ingredients
requires collective action on multiple fronts.
 Regulation: Strengthening oversight and updating safety standards for food
additives and ingredients is critical.
 Consumer Education: Empowering individuals to read labels, understand
ingredients, and choose minimally processed foods can help shift demand.
 Food Industry Reform: Incentivizing the production of healthier, whole food
options and reducing reliance on harmful substances can reshape the food
landscape.
 Community Initiatives: Supporting local agriculture, farmers’ markets, and
nutrition education programs builds resilience and fosters healthier eating habits.
Conclusion
The story of food is intertwined with the story of humanity—what we choose to nourish
ourselves with shapes our bodies, minds, and societies. The prevalence of chemical-
Laden and detrimental ingredients in modern diets is a silent epidemic, undermining
health and vitality. By raising awareness, demanding transparency, and advocating for
change, individuals and communities can reclaim their right to wholesome nutrition and
pave the way toward a healthier future for all.

Darya Minovi, thank you and all the UCS for doing the incredible work you do. I hope
This lengthy letter and information give you pause to consider.

 

 

“The Fragile Web That Feeds Us”

Workers of the World and Discovery of Self

Animals
Worldview-Image.jpg April 27, 2012
Worldview-Image.jpg
April 27, 2012

Some Philosophers, Sages, and ancient truth seekers believed to know oneself is the highest form of knowledge. Knowing oneself surpasses all other knowledge, and that Self-knowledge is also timeless, which means that what is gained in one era benefits all subsequent generations. They believed knowing oneself to be so important that they chiseled the words ‘Know Thyself’ above the Greek God Apollo’s tomb. I didn’t learn about this belief until I stumbled on it much later in life.  

Because of what these Sages and Philosophers did and my experiences growing up, I’m convinced there is more to you and me than meets the eye.  My journey takes me beyond what meets the eye. It is a time-consuming, expensive, and magical journey. 

Learning about myself was separate from my educational curriculum.  Our government standards, in my opinion, could be more inclusive. Focusing on competitiveness and creating a workforce is short sighted. Using economic growth as our only measuring stick for success is both short sighted and dangerous in my opinion. Most of my readers agree. Again, in my opinion  this is an obsolete approach.

Preserving life in all its forms must be our goal.  Leaving the majority of society scrambling to just survive…never mind flourish, in my opinion, is disgraceful behavior of our species. It’s like the saying, “cutting of our nose dispite our face”.  A slow suicide! 

The alternatives we embrace will tell our future.  Every dollar you and I spend shape the future of industry. I’ve understood for some 50 years why Organic and Biodynamic farming is our Magic for the 21st Century. I’m a reflection of the flourishing it weaves around the world. My people and I are blazing a flourishing trail with every dollar we invest in clean living soil which comes from growing food for people, not for profit. We understand how crucial the interconnectedness of the land, water, air, and life, seen and unseen, around us dictates our well-being.  

We are so much more than a workforce. We, each of us, are the stewards of our world and must educate ourselves accordingly. Education reform must be a priority. Mandatory curriculum’ must reflect stewardship of our communities, cities, states, countries, and the whole of Earth, at all levels in our educational institutions, never-ending and free. Appropriate time should be allowed for such intricate education. It must not be hurried.

Going beyond the name of a thing is the language humans must learn to speak. Doing so will unlock the mystery which lies within each of us. You know the one. The one always gnawing inside. Who am I? Why am I here?  

If each of us had been given the time to know ourselves, we would have forged a different trail and would more fully understand Nature’s language, my language, your language…then, I imagine a Paradise. 

What each of us do and do not do matters enormously! We, humans, are powerful beyond belief.  We’re a Planet of Superbeings; unfortunately, most don’t know this. Have we been misguided? Yes.  But, we are unstoppable when we find a direction we like. The pioneering spirit is in our DNA. It’s who we are! Transcending time.

Happy Magic for the 21st Century trails!

 

 

Seeping Mud Tea and Traveling Back in Time!

Animals, Home, Humans, Nature
Tea cup Stock Photos

 I drink what I call ‘mud tea’. My acupuncturist recommended Chinese herbs to help with the heat in my body. Apparently, I’ve too much fire. I do have Ares rising. If you know me, you’ll understand. Any way the tea works well.

Sipping this tea is like stepping back in time…I’m a six-year-old girl growing up in a small town in Texas building mud towns next to our house. I’m sure to have had a bite or two. I’m swinging from ropes across and into creeks. Falling in love with nature. Battling boys with BB Guns who do harm and kill tiny wood creatures indiscriminately.

It’s the 21st Century and I’m still battling boys with guns who harm and kill indiscriminately. How am I different? The choices I make either set me apart or makes me more homogenized. I want to be different. But, in what way? Each of us is different, yet we are also the same. The same feelings of anger, pain, confusion, desperation, joy, peace, love…the whole gambit of feelings flow through us at different times in our lives.

The knowledge of who I truly am, different and the same, humbles me and brings me to a point. When I come here and tap these words in so purposefully it seems more than appropriate that I come straight from the heart, but, afraid to say out loud what lies so deep.

I’m so very sorry for all my transgressions in life. Must I list them? Shame also lives there. Is that not enough? I beg forgiveness and struggle to forgive myself. Resting with love and light as I sip my Mud Tea!

Magic for the 21st Century!

Animals, Biodynamic Farming, Frequency, Nature, Planet

 
 
 

A beautiful picture, isn’t it?  But it’s nothing in comparison to the real thing. No image or video will ever come close to the real thing.

I recently heard the term Forest Bathing. I believe Forest Bathing is a good thing. How long does a forest bath last? And do the bathers understand their environment? Do Forest Bathers know nature has a language of its own and that understanding the language of nature takes slow observation?  I see pods in Forest bathers ears and they seem oblivious to their surroundings. Is this Forest Bathing? 

I advise making Forest Bathing your heart’s desire and unplugging from technology. Only then can you truly begin to understand the magic of Earth?

As a child, I lived with the wilderness outside my door. Just a couple of blocks away. And Red River was only three miles from my door.  Forest bathing was a daily affair.  Barefoot at times. Wiggling my toes in the earth. Wild smells filled my nostrils as I made my trail.  Rustling leaves. Squirrels chasing around trees, and the flurry of chirpping birds all around.

I had an advantage growing up. No technology. My forest bathing began at about age eight. Every visit lasted for half a day or more. The forest opened something I didn’t have a name for…maybe it was magic. My world was small. I breathed sweet air.  I was the kid swinging from a rope into a pond, hugging and laying against my tree, and dreaming.

The forest and all who integrate their livelihood around and into nature are truly magical.  Working with Cosmic Rhythms isn’t a new thing.  There are Ancient Mysteries, ancient technology, unexplained history, biblical prophecy, alien origins, secrets of the occult, lost worlds, secret societies, the paranormal, quantum theory, sacred monoliths, and forbidden knowledge that science cannot explain.

There are ancient Earth Grids. Working with these grids has been going on for a long and distinct period. The grids are of nature. Scientists do not have a name for the unseen forces in nature. Some scientists call it magic. Denial of its existence does not serve us well. My personal experience with nature tells me that the magic in nature is extremely real.

Twice in two days, a hawk flew maybe 30 feet above me, and I jumped an unnamed tributary and sat listening for a long while. The babbling brook carving its trail and wonder what architect plays here?

Who am I to be a part of this? And, as a part of this, then best I understand the language of nature. I’ve been learning the language for decades and have my people.  Together we grew an industry by 3200% in 10 years. Unprecedented growth! No industry has ever done more.

My people and I sold the US of A on organic farming. It’s been a game-changer.  It’s a huge leap for humanity! Organic and Biodynamic farming that works with cosmic rhythms sets a new bar and brings back the relevance of what came before.  Understanding that we are a part of this magic is a thrilling discovery. Knowing oneself connects us to the cosmic rhythms. It’s an incredible journey! An intricate trail that’s becoming a more and more traveled trail.

 Happy Magic for the 21st Century trails!

 

 

A Scary Monster Ruling the World!

Economy, Planet,

This is a strange topic for this holiday season, I know. Well, maybe not. I’m grateful and happy in my solitude on this day. However, it brings me to deep thinking;  world at peace and happy and compasionate humans. We, after all, are the ‘intellegent’ species. We’re in control of not only our destiny, but apparently the world as we know it. If you were to give our species a grade, what would it be?
 
What’s Citizens United got to do with this? Why does it always seem to be bubbling around my mind? Would you happen to know what Citizens United is for? It is a limitation to our choices. It makes it possible for a few to control the masses! Oh, you already know this right? What the heck can we do about it? If you think this is fine and I’ve already turned you off for bringing the topic up on this day, don’t read any further.
 
Bringing up this topic has caused some to pay the ultimate price.  Guess something could go wrong with my Social Security, Medicare, little things like that. Why would they bother? Me, I’m just a tiny fish in the pond. 
 
This is HUGE! In 2010 a Supreme Court decision in the Citizens United vs. FEC case effectively blocked the ability to enact limits on campaign spending and opened the floodgates to the billions of dollars pouring into the election system. Enabling those with access to concentrated wealth to have vastly more influence over our political system than the average American.
Personally, I don’t consider myself to be an ‘average’ American; extraordinary, brilliant, and strong, come to mind. How about you?
 
My thought, those qualifying for government roles should have equal access to platforms; media. Currently, as most of you know, only those with massive amounts of money can be seen and heard. You do see how that might set limitations? How about this, setting legislation providing a sensible answer that levels the field.
 
I’m not the only human who thinks that every qualified individual seeking a government office (not sure if qualifications need to be amended) has equal funding and exposure. How does this work? Well, the money for this would come from the people of the United States and corporate tax (taxed according to levels of income) dollars.
 
Everyone has an equal state in this kind of policy. The media would be required to donate a certain amount of air time to each candidate, with tax dollars paying a portion.
 
We’re all in this together…not just the corporations filling the pockets of politicians!
We can not have a just society as long as the floodgates are open to billions of dollars enabling those with access to concentrated wealth to have vastly more influence over our political system than the rest of us.
 
Americans already bow to consumerism over our air, water, land and wildlife. In the 21st Century, how much more can we sacrifice? Find candidates that support getting rid of Citizens United. A scary monster ruling the world! 
 
Leaving on a positive note.  I ​Pledge allegiance to Earth. Promising to educate others so they may become caretakers of our water, air, land, wildlife, and the unseen life all around and beneath our feet. 

Intrepidly Daring: The Adventure Awaits

Economy, Home, Humans, , , , , , ,

It’s alright to be audacious…as I’ve said before, and, I’ll say it again. Much of what we love has to go! Sad and true. Even with my knowledge, letting go is the hardest thing I’ve ever attempted.

In my heart, I know the class system is unjust and immoral. We’ve been living in a age of imitation for much too long. Humans are as a big baby crawling around the planet with no consciousness or care for what we do.

Words like ‘poor’, ‘poverty’, ‘hunger’, ‘homeless’ must be eliminated from our language. Along with contaminated, poison, adulterated.

I like the word flourish. Let’s face it. We can’t flourish as long as those words exist! Those words define an existence of suffering and strife. Suffering and strife can not be our norm. It totally rubs me the wrong way…thank goodness I’m not alone in this thinking.

Throughout history there have always been those who have said ‘no’ to suffering and strife. I join those ranks. I say no more to the inequality running rampant. I join the long line of woman who fought and died for the right for women to vote and the rank of those who fought and died for civil rights.

Someone has always championed morality and justice for all. This too is the norm. There will always be people who protest injustice! TRump will always ‘protest’ our right to ‘protest’ injustice! Stupid. The rebellion is here! It will never go away!

We’ve always had audacious leaders like Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren. History is full of those who want to make the lines between the top, middle and bottom go away, or at least blur. Their ideas are not new, they’re just and need to be integrated into our government. We need Foundational Pillars that begin to blur the lines of inequality. We need Well-Being legislation, and less focus on Economic Growth as our only measuring stick for prosperity!

Empowerment

Home, Humans, Planet, , ,

Not much is said about ’empowerment’. Why is that? What is ’empowerment’?

Webster says Empowerment is

1: the act or action of empowering someone or something : the granting of the power, right, or authority to perform various acts or duties
 
Isn’t this something we all want? I can definitely say yes. I want empowerment. There is so much I want to do. There is something missing though. Unless we can empower with love, then we miss the most important part of the equation. Empowerment through love is the greatest gift of all. 
In many regards, I’m like like everyone else, I let my ego show. It’s human nature to do so. However, my passion for the change I want to see has never wavered. It remains the same as it was in the 80s while working in Washington, D.C….I’ve a much smaller platform here in Colorado Springs, CO. Few know me or the work I’ve done.  However, my passion remains the same, I keep doing what I’ve always done. My passion for being the best steward of our planet I can be lives deep inside my heart. Acknowledgement or not.
 
Recently I ‘Commented’ within a post responding to Richard Kirby (http://agrinomics.com/) and his feelings about not receiving ‘credit’ for the incredible work he is doing with Biodynamic and organic agriculture. He feels farmers are duplicating his work without mentioning how they come to do so.
 
Duplication is the highest form of praise. However, acknowledgment is ‘Empowerment’. When you acknowledge someone for the work they have done and continue to do it broadens their platform enabling them to have greater impact. Which is a great benefit to the changes we so want, everything benefits.
 
Of course I want acknowledgement. Don’t we all. I want to be empowered. I want people to know what I have done and continue to do. We all need to empower one another as much as possible.
There is so much work to be done. I want the broadest forum I can get. I want people who are of like nature to support each other. By empowering each other we can go forth and multiply our efforts. We can see the change we want to see happen at a more rapid pace.
Happy Empowerment Trails

How Education Reform Heals Our Planetary Home

Home, Humans, Planet, Wild World, , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Our intent on separating ourselves from nature has limited our vocabulary. Our limited understanding of nature and our place within it makes us deaf to the heartbeat of our world.

Education reform must be the priority of our nation. The mandatory curriculum must reflect our well-being, the well-being of our communities, cities, states, countries, and the planet, at all levels in our educational institutions, and be ongoing and free. An appropriate amount of time must be allowed for such intricate education. We are no less critical than an Olympian and can not be hurried if we are to heal ourselves, nature, and our Planetary home.

Understanding how we arrived at our present state is best explained in a YouTube video titled ‘The Happiness Machine’. It reveals the influence of Sigmund Freud and his Nephew Edward Bernays had in shaping our ‘ self-based’ society…which still prevails! We are not here by accident at this juncture. It was planned and based on ‘economic growth’ entirely, without thought of the consequences to ourselves and our planet.

In contrast, and left out of much of our history, ancient sages felt knowing thyself so vital that they chiseled ‘Know Thyself’ in stone over the tomb of the mythical god Apollo. Why did they take the time to chisel these words in stone? The answer is complicated. Perhaps, it can best be answered in a poem by a presidential candidate, long before she was a candidate, Marianne Williamson.

“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness, that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, ‘Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous?’ Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won’t feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It’s not just in some of us; it’s in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously permit other people to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.”

We are ‘powerful beyond measure’ if allowed to achieve it. Ancient sages believed:

“Self-knowledge is all-encompassing. What is learned on one scale of experience can be applied to all scales. It is the highest form of knowledge, surpassing all other knowledge. Self-knowledge is also timeless, which means that what is gained in one era, benefits all subsequent generations.”

Knowing oneself has intricate beginnings. Time-consuming beginnings. Beginnings, which are a part of every living being; soil, water, air, and all we see and don’t see. The connections are innate and undeniable. Everything has a purpose and is connected.

Going beyond the name of a thing is the language of science. It is a language humans must learn to speak. Life in all its forms is precious and necessary. All the life that surrounds us sustains each of us in ways we do not fully understand. Making the appropriate time to understand the language of science and nature will take a shift in how we approach education. We need to do more than churn out a workforce.

Currently, our Education Standards are geared to produce a workforce. Humans are more than a workforce and must be educated accordingly.  Humans are the logical choice as stewards to carry out the responsibility of maintaining the well-being of ourselves and our Planetary home. The two are not mutually exclusive; we are intricately connected, and we must educate ourselves accordingly.

Making the language of science and nature a mandatory part of our education will unlock the mystery that lies within each of us. Learning the language will answer that question that is constantly gnawing in our being, alluding to us, and seems unanswerable.

When we learn the language of science, we discover who we are and our place in nature. By doing so, we understand our purpose within this network of life. Maintaining optimum well-being, and how we connect.

The world does not stand still. Neither must we. Change occurs regardless of what we do or do not do. I intend to flourish. Join me. Make your well-being a top priority, and the rest will fall into place.

We, humans, are fortunate. We have the ability and brilliance to direct these changes. What we do and do not do matters enormously!

Happy Trails!

Wild Horses of the Calico Mountains

Animals, Economy, Home, Planet, , , , , , ,

Wild horses of Nevada’s Calico Mountains

The  Calico Mountain Wild Horses. Beautiful. Perfect. Look more closely.  Can you see the terror in their eyes?  Can you see the frozen sweat on their bodies? The hot breath bursting from their lungs? They have been running to stay free and wild. They can not escape the helicopters which track them down and corral them. I can almost hear them say, Where do I go? Why is this thing chasing me? Terrified, screaming and running as fast as they can; their families scattered like the wind.

One hundred years ago an estimated two million mustangs roamed the Western range. Now there are under 35,000. Most ranchers want our Public Lands for their Livestock and want the Government to Stick It to Wild Horses and Taxpayers. Ranchers who graze their cows on federal lands are hellbent on taking wildlife and the public along with them for the ride. The Livestock Industry require more food, water, land, and energy than plants to raise and transport livestock. Cornell University ecologist says the U.S. could feed 800 million people with the grain that livestock eat. Never mind that a single cow, on average, releases 70 to 120 kgs of methane per year. Now, it is important to remember that we’re talking about a single cow. Worldwide, there are approximately 1.5 billion cows and bulls, each emitting that much methane. Where does the methane go? Into our Planetary home’s atmosphere!

“Every time you or I take a bite of beef we are saying, ‘it’s okay to run off these once free wild horses off there land and separate you from your family’.  You don’t matter! It’s okay for us to terrorize you and run you from your home…think about this the next time you order up a Quarter Pounder!”