Earth Day will be celebrated this Sunday, and I’ve been doing some reflecting. Taking advantage of the cooler weather, I walked to work this morning and thought about what Earth Day means for me and how Heifer’s mission isn’t just about ending hunger and poverty, but it also includes caring for the Earth.

Photo by Dave Anderson, courtesy of Heifer International

There is no denying that the Earth is in trouble. Most of us are aware of the effects from climate change.  Catastrophic floods in Pakistan, torrential rains in Eastern Uganda, stifling drought in the Horn of Africa, enormous forest fires in Russia, powerful hurricanes in the Gulf of Mexico, etc. The rhythm of the seasons are disturbed, the web of life is askew; nothing seems quite right anymore. Global warming is frightening; and sadly, humans are contributing to it and destroying the only home we know.

That’s the bad news. But here’s what we can do.

We need to change from the inside – change our thinking and attitude and, most important, our behavior. There’s a connection and an interdependence with the elements that surround us: water, soil, fire and air. When you have this connection with Earth, you are invested.

Honestly, I think every day should be Earth Day. We should always make an effort. Caring for the Earth isn’t something “someone else” will solve. I’m optimistic that together we can save the Earth and live in a world where anyone, anywhere could…

… walk up to a river and drink the water … and feel safe.

… buy and eat fruits and vegetables … and feel safe.

… eat fish or meat … and feel safe.

… take a deep breath of air … and feel safe.

I believe one day we will live in a world where everyone has enough to eat, cherishes their surroundings and lovingly cares for this planet we call home.