NAVIGATE

Kris Carr

Wellness

How Courage Can Heal Your Body and the Planet

Hiya Gorgeous,

I was recently watching the nightly news when I saw a heartbreaking story about a dying killer whale and her baby. It hurt so much that I almost changed the channel. But my inner activist whispered,

“Don’t turn away. Learn about these whales. They will teach you something about yourself.”

So today I want to share this story and my broader revelations with you. Don’t worry, they’re not graphic. And please don’t turn away because you too may learn something, just like I did.

Scientists near the South Pole were making house calls (so to speak) to check on the health of these majestic beings.

Using a drone, they were able to evaluate the whales’ conditions. What they saw was shocking. The mother and baby were wasting away, literally starving to death because they didn’t have enough food. Why? Climate change. The warming ocean temperatures have greatly diminished their food supply.

After the news segment, I faded into the sofa and slept for hours. It all just felt so big, depressing and out of control—familiar feelings for me around environmental stories. When my hubby asked if I was OK, I lied and told him that I had a tummy ache and was tired from a long work day—that I’d be fine. I just needed to sleep (with my comforting heating pad).

The next morning, I woke up and immediately thought about those whales. As tears poured down my cheeks, I went from wondering what happened to our world to questioning why we let it happen.

 

Ten years ago when I was pitching my film, Crazy Sexy Cancer, to TV networks, there seemed to be a popular resurgence of the environmental movement. “Green” was hot. The Sundance channel had a green station, Al Gore made a hit movie, there were many trendy eco blogs and news sites with dedicated green sections. It felt very hopeful. People had awakened to the seriousness of the situation and it seemed there was no turning back. Pretty soon we’d all be driving cooking oil fueled cars. I imagined pulling into McDonald’s instead of Citgo to filler’ up.

And then, like most bubbles, green burst. As if it was a fad—no more important than an outdated fashion trend.

Today, even though environmental issues are more critical than ever, they rarely get the coverage they deserve. And when they do, society doesn’t always seem to show interest.

One reason for this is because of a very deliberate effort to influence how we think about the issues. Special interest groups, lobbyists and corporations have done a banging job to undermine the credibility of science and reality itself to create a false narrative about the perils of climate change. So much so that standing up for the planet (our lifeline and future) is now often met with hostility and ridicule.

However, here’s what we know to be true: the science is real and irrefutable.

Humans are by far the number one cause of our rapidly warming planet. Do you know what else is true, despite what you may have heard? It’s absolutely possible to create jobs and care for the environment at the same time.

But politics aside, back to the question of why we (everyday citizens) don’t care. Perhaps we seemingly “don’t care” because many of us actually do care—deeply. Huh?

We are compassionate by nature—we’re wired that way. When one of us suffers, we all suffer. But when the pain of suffering is too great, it’s natural to shut down and even turn away. We feel powerless. The bigger the problem, the more powerless we feel—and there’s no bigger problem than climate change. So perhaps it’s this underlying feeling of helplessness that makes us shrink.

As Earth Day approaches, it’s the perfect time to reflect on how each of us actually does have the power to stop shrinking and start rising.

That’s why I don’t feel comfortable staying silent about issues that matter to me. At the top of my list: the environment. So I gotta be honest, I’m having a really hard time with our current administration. And while I’m willing to be patient and pray for their success, I’m also keeping a close eye on what they’re actually doing.

As a cancer patient, wellness advocate and animal rights activist, I know that the health of our planet is interconnected with the health of the individuals and species residing on it. In fact, each one of us is like a little mini-planet made in our mother’s image. We have rivers, streams and delicate terrains inside us. When our complex terrain is out of balance or polluted, we get sick.

Sometimes I think of my own illness like inner climate change. The ecosystem that is me is struggling, and I have a choice: I can ignore myself or I can take responsibility for how I care for myself.

That’s self-love. That’s also environmental activism. And that’s what it takes to get well, inside and out.

Now this doesn’t mean that genetics don’t play a factor in disease. It means that our choices also matter and the same wellness principles apply to the larger organism—our planet. Therefore, the rivers, streams, oceans, skies, trees, terrains and sentient beings that help us thrive deserve the same level of respect and protection.

Clearly, this is heavy stuff and it’s all well and good to philosophize, but what do we actually do if this conversation is important to us?

Apply a heaping dose of courage to the wound.

Courage is the only prescription that can heal our planet. Courage to look at the facts, the images and the beings affected. Courage to educate ourselves through credible sources outside of our various information bubbles. And courage to take action, to turn toward the suffering so we can actually do something about it.

Because it’s the doing something that makes a difference, that makes us feel better, that connects us to our community and the world at large. Even if the something is very, very small, it’s never insignificant.

It’s easy to think, “Why bother? I’ll never make a dent.” Not true. Simple actions can create a ripple effect of healing. We may not see a global transformation in our lifetimes, but we can find peace and pride knowing that we contributed to it.

I don’t know what to do about the mother and baby whale. But I do know that I can be more conscious about conservation in my own life. I have a voice, you have a voice and, today more than ever, we are called to use it.

So where can you start?

The first step is staying informed and focusing on an area that you’re passionate about. It might be national parks, clean air, our oceans or endangered species. It could be sustainable farming and eating a more conscious, plant-based diet. Whatever it is, take the time to learn more about it. Connect with organizations you can trust and do everything you can to support them. Also, get to know how your local representatives are voting on these issues. Let them know how you want them to vote and don’t back down.

Use this link to find your representatives and track how they vote.

These are some of the organizations I follow and support. Please add yours in the comments below and share ways you’d recommend getting involved.

Organizations:

Peace & planet,

Add a comment
  1. Susan Lerner says:

    Environmental issues is one big reason I chose to be plant based/vegan. Thank you for writing about this issue.

  2. Ann says:

    Food and Water Watch is another good one!

  3. Sue J says:

    Thanks, Chris. The Nature Conservancy is also doing great work and should be recognized.

  4. Maryam says:

    Thank you for this very thoughtful and sincere essay. I know that feeling of helplessness when we see our fellow Earthling’s sufferings and not being able to do much to help them. I would have no hope for the wellness of our mother Earth and all of the sentient beings who live on it if it weren’t for Direct Action Everywhere’s incredible and courageous work. I am an animal rights activist and I know we can make positive change if we each do what we can, and empower others to take action. Thank you Kris!! I love every one of your articles!!!

  5. Jen Blair says:

    I realized as an animal lover and environmentalist I couldn’t be a part of the biggest contributor to climate change so I became vegan last May. Of course, I’m not perfect and I have slipped and had some cheese but we’re all human and I do the best I can and encourage others to do what they can, especially if they love nature and animals and want to protect the planet for generations to come. I support campaigns thru NRDC, Panthers, Defenders of Wildlife, Earthjustice, Cheetah Conservation, Farm Sanctuary, our national parks, organic farming and more….! Thanks Kris! You expressed how I feel too, and I love that I’m part of your tribe!!

  6. Nora Kramer says:

    Thank you so much for this important piece and for all you do, Kris! It’s amazing that I ncorporating more vegan meals into our diets is not only one of the best things we can do for our health but for the planet too. In this age where regulations are being cut and the government is not protecting us, this is a way we can take matters into our own hands!

    Also, I’d love for you to know about Youth Empowered Action (YEA) Camp, a summer camp that trains teens to become effective activists and serves all vegan food!

    <3

  7. Raelene says:

    I’ve struggled with that kind of hurt my whole life from the issues of our planet and animals too. While everything looks so sad and bleak sometimes, I believe, like you, that everyone together can make a huge difference. Even when it’s overwhelming with how much work there is to do, I’m reminding myself everyday to look at how far we’ve come. Thanks for reminding us that our voices count.

  8. Jen says:

    Thank you Kris! I really needed to hear this today. I’m heading to the March for Science in D.C. this weekend (across the country for me). I’m going because I think we need to send a powerful statement to the current administration (and all politicians) that science matters and independent, peer-reviewed science is critical to making good policy decisions. But I’m leaving my young children at home to go to the march. This is not an easy thing for me to do and I’ve been second-guessing my decision to be away from my family for several days. I needed this reminder that my small contribution is still important, even when it seems like I personally can’t make a difference.

  9. Barbara says:

    Such a great comparison of our bodies being just like the world. If everyone thought of it that way, I think we’d see big changes. Thanks for a great post!

  10. Angelina Ross says:

    This is such a beautiful post, Kris-thank you for sharing! I love and support many of the same organizations you do, so I’d like to offer the suggestion of one more for you-EarthJustice. They have a wonderful charity rating and I agree with their vision of “Because the Earth Needs a Good Lawyer”!

    Blessings on your Journey, my Sister!

  11. Jenny says:

    Thank you for this article. My husband will actually watch something before me to see if “I can handle it.” Watching suffering of any kind will throw me into a panic attack and take over the rest of my day (or few days). I have been contemplating counseling for this extreme sensitivity, which I know can simultaneously be a blessing and a curse. I do what I can on an individual level to help and am hoping to tame the anxiety enough to use my sensitivity to help more.

  12. cathy says:

    Excellent! I often turn away because the pain is overwhelming. But I do try to know enough to develop good habits and try to lead by example. But I know I can do more. Thanks for the boost!

  13. Ari Stefánsson says:

    We have the technology to take care of everyone through automated machines overseen via cybernetic computers, to relieve everyone from repetitive, mundane labour and provide everyone´s basic necessities of life in high abundance. We´d no longer have to use money at all, we could pursue the higher possibilities. The new economic model would be based on the Earth´s resources. A resource-based economy is proposed by The Zeitgeist Movement and The Venus Project.

  14. Carolyn McEvoy says:

    You hit the nail on the head when you stated that sometimes all the hurt and the damage, can be SO overwhelming—how indeed, can my little act or action possibly make a difference. I try to do my best by eating as close to the Earth as possible—-anything to get away from the inhumane industry that is– factory farming. I thank God often that He allows me to be vegan. Like you, I have a very sickening feeling about the current president and his “finger on the trigger” mentality. Your mentioning of the mother whale and her baby.. I have to HOPE that God presented this situation to maybe perhaps spur reaction such as yours Kris, I HAVE to think this way–otherwise, I would literally fall into a bottomless well of depression. I work in the news business and I am hit daily with the ugliness that people do— to their babies, their pets, their elderly parents, the corruption of municipal government, and so much more. It is emotionally draining, so I try to “balance it,” if you will, by seeking out the positive things good people are doing, from the folks at “The Dodo” who always help animals (a great passion of mine), to people doing what they can to help our local homeless (many of whom are mentally challenged). As long as I’ve been a journalist, I can still recall a handful of stories that were so horrific in nature that they’ve become a part of my permanent memory. But here’s the thing– every time I write or read about the deliberate cruelty enacted on a defenseless infant, an animal, or elderly person, God ALWAYS manages to put something positive in my path – usually that very same day, to remind me that there ARE good people out there, I just have to be better at noticing the good things people are doing. This is how I cope with a world that is calling out with greater urgency.. for our help. Thank you for your blog.

  15. KT Doyle says:

    Wow Kris! I was just feeling all the overwhelm you talk about here and then your newsletter arrived in my inbox and reminded me I’m not alone. Thank you for your realism and within that, your optimism. It’s true, if we take action on something we believe in, we already feel better. As a small business owner, I’ve signed up as a member of 1% for the Planet and donate 1% of profits to a local non-profit called Rainforest Rescue, who are repopulating the lower Daintree National Park in North Queensland, Australia. There are lots of great non-profits people can connect with as business owners or as individuals via 1% for the Planet. A great resource and hub to check out with non-profits and organisations around the world doing amazing things. Peace and love, KT (Brisbane, Australia).

  16. Paulina says:

    Beautiful post Kris!

  17. Anika Ballent says:

    Very well said Kris! Thank you for your clear, inspiring writing, as always!

    To everyone: If you want to help support a healthy ocean free of plastic pollution, check out Algalita. I work for a non profit dedicated to inspiring solutions to plastic pollution. We have many different educational programs in LA/OC and beyond. You can learn more about the issue and how you can get involved on our website: http://www.algalita.org

  18. Susan says:

    Thank you, Kris! Your post has really resonated with me, as I too feel overwhelmed and depressed about the abuse of our beautiful world and fellow earthlings (critters included). I have often been so down, I want to just curl up to make it all go “away”, but I have two young children. That’s just not an option in my life ; ) Thank you for giving me the “sisterly” kick / reminder I need. I am not alone. I am not the only one who feels helpless. AND I’m thoroughly enjoying the GREEN DRINK A DAY CHALLENGE! XO

  19. Elise DuFour says:

    oceansinfocus.org
    oceanmediainstitute.org

  20. Rhonda says:

    Kris, you truly have a way with words and always echo my sentiments exactly! With everything going on in our country right now I get truly down about our future; thank you for reinforcing the idea that it’s never too late and that each of us can make a difference, and for re-igniting my fire!

  21. Abby N. says:

    Mission Blue, Dr. Sylvia Earle is doing tremendous work on Ocean “HopeSpots”
    https://www.mission-blue.org/hope-spots/?mc_cid=cb22233b75&mc_eid=199f164a55

  22. Angela says:

    This is absolutely beautiful Kris! You are so right. I need some advice. I’m a artist, a painter and I really want to help the environment. I’m vegan, drink your smoothies, etc. when possible. ? They always help me to feel better when I can get what is needed. Thanks for that! Do you know of any animal friendly paints? If so, do you know where I can find some?I’m in Georgia, which is huge on fishing etc. I agree with you though. I think many turn away because they actually care too much. I was to passionate at first to see that and only saw that some were causing harm. I think a middle ground needs to be found. Do you have any ideas of how I can do that here in a place where many love fishing, etc. ? A part of me feels that by my speaking about you, i help others learn more about being vegan etc. I want to do more though. Do you have any ideas?
    Namaste
    ???

  23. Leesah says:

    Thank you for sharing your heart and being a peaceful voice of reason. As a multi-passionate entrepreneur I struggle with how to use my voice to represent what is in my heart but also stay neutral on political issues so that I do not alienate any of my clients. I loved how you did this . It helps me find my way .

  24. Dawn Engler says:

    Hi Kris
    I like The Nature Conservancy
    Green America and I Love what Ocean and his Dad are doing with Food Revolution Network

  25. Angelic Rubalcava says:

    I love you Kris Carr!!! I am a huge animal and environmental activist and I actively sign and write petitions daily. THANK YOU for writing, posting and sharing this. We as individuals and as a collective can make immense change, never underestimate the power you hold and can use to the best of your ability. I am a healer and life coach, and I am throwing it out into the Universe to one day collaborate with you! You bring so much light, love and humor to this world and to mine <3 Thank you again, blessings

  26. Laura says:

    My dear Kris. I had the exact same sadness about the exact same thing a couple of days ago. I turned away from the email. It made me feel mad, sad, frustrated, disappointed. As a vegan, rescuer, animal advocate, among other compassionate characteristics, I admire your blog post and recognize it gives other courage to speak up for those who can’t. Thank you for doing it and for reminding us that little things count and matter.

  27. Jonathan Freeman says:

    As I understand it, the single biggest change you can make to your lifestyle to slow climate change is to eliminate consumption of animals and animal products. As water and the oceans are a personal concern of mine I have eliminated or reduced single use plastic. Plastic never goes away – it just gets smaller.

  28. Rhonda says:

    I so agree with Kris. Sometimes I just want to pull the covers over my head, but I know that does nothing to affect change. The one thing we all have is a voice, and to find compassionate ways to use our voices makes more inroads to bring awareness. It all starts with being aware and having conversations on what we as individuals can do. I so appreciate that Kris ends this article on the note that the choices we each make every day on our plate makes a big difference and being the example at every meal is a way to make others aware of our concerns for the environment impact and compassion for animals with every bite.

  29. Robin Elise Smith-Koehler says:

    Dear Kris,
    Yes, it’s overwhelming, but we can all do something to help immediately! Everything is energy, including our words. Blessing something is sending good energy to it. Anyone can do this!!! Every morning when I wake up, I bless the whales, the dolphins, the bees, Mother Earth, the trees, the animals and anything and anyone I feel needs blessing. I have been doing this for two years, the flow of energy increases the more you bless…you will begin to feel this energy. It’s very effective, you can bless any time, simply by saying, in any language: “I bless the whales, I bless the trees, I bless the…..” simple! I ask you to join me, blessing something is sending good energy, so simple, so effective!!!

  30. peggy cullinane says:

    God I love your spirit Kris; you inspire me to be a better human being. I love my charities: AA, IRC, WWF, SPLC, NRDC, Alley Cat Allies, ONE, The Carter Center, Beads For Life, Feeding America, Care, Feed the Children, Shoes for the Homeless, Project Hope, Midnight Mission, PBS, Felicity House Nature Conservancy, etc. Human Beings need to be active; I love gathering up shoes from my friends and taking them to Shoes for the Homeless; they go DIRECTLY to the Homeless,
    I enjoyed singing in the Glee Club where we would go to nursing homes; the clients may not remember their family names but remembered the words to the oldies but goodies songs. Doing volunteer work at Agape Church by helping the preschoolers, working at the Intergenerational Project where seniors work with students. These activities are a great use of my time. Thank YOU Kris for the word “GORGEOUS” – it’s uplifting. Thank you for your tenderness. Love Peggy

  31. Sanda says:

    Love your thoughts on this, Kris! Thank you for speaking up. I am guilty of staying quiet and turning a blind eye because the pain feels too much and I feel helpless. I do remind myself that every small step each of us take matters and this post helps.
    I find this organization hugely inspiring, especially as the whole project was a teenager’s idea and now it’s grown into an enormous global environmental project: https://www.theoceancleanup.com/

  32. Mary says:

    Thank you, Kris, for having the courage to speak your truth about the environment and our vital role in the care of the earth. You have inspired me. We change the world one heart and one choice at a time.

  33. Kristine says:

    Thank you so much for the link you provided to find the US state reps. That is so helpful. Thanks for all of the information you provided on so many topics also. You inspire me to be my best self !

  34. Thank you so much for reminding us that we all have the power to change the world. Little things count. Everything counts. Much love and gratitude to you for inspiring others with your great courage.

  35. Karen says:

    The Nature Conservancy is an effective environmental organization as well.

  36. Penny says:

    Kris thank you for that really powerful post. When I read elsewhere that your country’s administration was going to cull sleeping bears and wolves I was totally incensed enough to write to Congress. I am very scared how the world is panning out and I promise to do my bit too.God bless xx

  37. Hilty says:

    I love that you wrote this today! Kismet! I recently started a website/social media initiative to encourage people to do one good thing a day to help humans, animals, or the planet and this week is all about the environment. Thanks for giving me some good ideas! xo

  38. Jodi says:

    Loved this article, Kris…especially how the ecosystem that is me and how I nurture and take care of it (or not) can be a metaphor for the environment. It all starts from within. Beautiful. Thank you for reminding us that our awareness is critical, and even small acts can make a difference. Thank you.

  39. April says:

    While I do understand and agree with most of what you’re saying, I have a bigger question. Why doesn’t anyone ever we talk about overpopulation? I’m not talking about the whales either. We humans have grown so large that we alone are depleting the ocean and land, plus we are a large cause of the pollution. I am in no way saying that people shouldn’t have children, but I do believe we need to be conscious of our choices. Because of the large population, we have turned to GMO’ed foods, fishing out large quantities of seafood from the oceans, cutting down trees and clearing land for more housing to feed and shelter people. I do believe there can be a balance achieved but it feels like people just want to blame it all on politics and food choices ( vegan vs non-vegan).

    • Bill says:

      I MUST reply to THAT nonsense!…. The whole “overpopulation” hype is just that. The comfortable carrying capacity of Gaia is 70Billion+, *if* we do it correctly. That’s 10x the current population. But, if we continue our Western/EU/American ways of gross personal over-consumption, “consumerism”, Globalism, etc., then we *might* be pushing planetary carrying capacity. **BUT**, the same Globalist “military-industrial complex” that brought us here, is driving GMO’s. We absolutely can, and MUST begin to switch to industrial-scale ORGANIC, plant-based agriculture.
      Google “Georgia Guide stones”, to see the bloated, evil RICH who are looking to literally KILL 90 – 95% of Earth’s population. The issue is NOT how many of us there are, but rather, *HOW* *WE* *LIVE*….

      • April says:

        Bill, “overpopulation” is not just “hype”. You see this example in nature when there are too many of a certain species. What happens? You get disease, aggression/violence, starvation and death. This is across the board including humans and we see examples of it every day. Disease and illness spreads when animals (including people) are too crowded. This is nature trying to restore balance. Some of what you are talking about is a tall order and it is highly unlikely that the majority of people will change. What makes you think the 70 Billion is a comfortable number for our planet? It’s already too crowded. I understand the over-consumption and consumerism issues that you are talking about. Simply talking about them hasn’t helped and frankly they are just buzz words thrown around so much that they have little meaning now. You won’t be able to plant organic foods if there is no land. GMO’s came into play largely because they needed a way to grow food for fast growing population, however, I am aware that money plays a role as well. Life in any capacity is about balance. We are not the only animal present on this earth., other species have a right to thrive and survive as well, both plants and animals. As it is now, the more humans that are present, the more we destroy Mother Earth because of resources needed. That’s just a fact.

        • Bill says:

          There *IS* much overpopulation hype, spin, and “fake news”, and the issue has been high-jacked by Globalists who are bent on increasing *THEIR* power, control, and profit, at OUR expense. No, it’s not ALL “hype”. My point is that it’s not “how many” of us there are, but HOW we live. I noted that we are already “overcrowded” at current population numbers, and our “Western”, corporate-capitalist, resource-exploitation, consumerist, throw-away lifestyle is the #1 culprit there. Our “enemies” are the “GREG B.’s” – the Global Ruling Elites, & Global Banksters. Yes, we *can*be* seen as “cancer cells” on Gaia, but we can also be her salvation, or at least wise stewards. I’m largely “preaching to the choir” here. Did you google “Georgia Guide Stones”? “Agenda 21”? Are you well aware of the Bilderbergers, the Trilateral Commission, Club of Rome, etc.? I’m doing my best to also educate everybody ELSE who might see these comments…. For various reasons, the *RATE* of population growth *IS* slowing dramatically, especially in industrialized, so-called “Western Countries”. Also, please learn about Buckminster Fuller, and read his “Spaceship Earth”….
          There ARE such folks as “climate change alarmists”, AND “deniers”. My issue with your “overpopulation” position, is that it leads logically and inevitably to population CULLING. Forced sterilization. Endless wars, which do NOT really address the problem. The issue is far too complicated, and detailed, to go into fully here.
          We ARE on the SAME TEAM! Thanks for your link, and I encourage EVERYBODY who reads this, to continue to EDUCATE yourselves, and LEARN….. I’m NOT saying that there is NOT an “over-population” problem, only that it is not fully, nor accurately understood, and that’s by design. TPTB want us all scared and confused, and ignorant, because we’re easier to control that way. GMO’s are part of a plan by Monsanto, Bayer, Syngenta, etc., and the “GREG B.’s”, to control the world’s food & seed supply, and therefore it’s population, for THEIR profit, at OUR expense. Any claims that there are any humanitarian motives on the corporations part are blatant GREENWASHING, spin, and hype…. We CAN have industrial-scale ORGANIC agriculture. Thanks again, Karissa!

          • Bill says:

            I forgot to include a specific *THANK-YOU* to Kris Carr, for providing this forum for us ALL to meet, and share, and teach, and learn, and WORK TOGETHER!…. WE CAN DO IT! ~thnx, ppl!

    • Karissa Ostheimer says:

      Yes! Thank you, April. This website shows the world population in live time- http://www.worldometers.info/world-population. The number is continuously going up. Look at the yearly number of deaths compared to number of births. It’s insane. I remember even just 10 years ago going to national parks and beaches and being able to enjoy nature. Now, everywhere seems so packed with humans that it’s impossible to enjoy unless I go at dawn. It is a blatant delusion that it’s okay to pack more and more humans on the planet. We are like cancer cells to poor Mother Earth, continuously sucking the life out of it. Why do we feel the need to control the populations of other species “for the good of nature” yet we let our own population proliferate? If I did have a child, I would be fearing for it’s future. It is taking far too long for the reality of climate change to sink in for the necessary massive lifestyle changes to occur. Convenience and money is still prevailing.

  40. Gail says:

    Kris,
    I have loved coming to know about you 10 years ago when you rose to prominence over your book, which coincided with my mother’s own battle with cancer. And I am SURE that 99.9 % of your followers are 100% green granola types, like you. But, I have to say a couple of things.
    First is that, no, the “green” movement didn’t just happen 10 years ago. That is just when it resonated with you due to your circumstances. But I can remember being “taught” in elementary school in the 60’s (!) about “acid rain” and how it was going to ruin the planet. And, back then, it was “global cooling” and we were terrified into thinking the next ice age would soon be upon us due to our evil ways ! Point being, “environmental news” is largely bunk !! The world cares very little about what we, puny humans, do and we should stop kidding ourselves otherwise.
    Second is that all big issues are very complicated. Usually the best way to trace the source of any problem is to follow the money – who is making money off of “being green” ? Hmm, Al Gore, Elon Musk…Whoever is PROFITING off of a “movement” is suspect in my opinion. Because the clearly have a vested interest in promoting their agenda.
    Just something to think about.

    • Anne says:

      Have you ever thought about the fact that things are cumulative? So in fact, it wasn’t bunk in the 60s, or the 70s, or now, it’s just gotten worse and the effects continue to add up. The environment and nature are in fact very much impacted by our actions. Have you seen the smog alerts in some parts of the world? Or the photos of plastic in the oceans and in bellies of birds? Do you think that’s make belief? The best thing that could happen for the environment is if we “puny humans” were no longer around – it would do just fine without us. Unfortunately, the reverse is not true. We need the Earth a lot more than it needs us. Also, there are plenty of people doing environmental work who aren’t making money from it and who aren’t famous – you’ve listed two people who happen to be very well-known for a number of reasons. In any case, I don’t think it would kill any of us to try a little bit harder to be stewards of the land, would it?

      • Gail says:

        Then how do you explain the continual change from “global cooling” to “global warming’ to “climate change” ?

        I agree it doesn’t mean I advocate ‘trashing’ the planet, as I faithfully recycle, reduce, reuse. But I do think there IS A LOT of bunk behind the business (and don’t kid yourself that it isn’t a business) of “green” and that much of it won’t matter a hill of beans.

    • Elizabeth says:

      If you’re going to “follow the money” of those who fight for the environment then you better also be willing to “follow the money” of those who fight against the environment. You will find that for every dollar to be made by “green granolas'” and your evil Al Gore, there are millions being made by fossil fuel, chemical, big-Agra industries.

      Also, Just because the story changed over the decades (acid rain / cooling, etc.) doesn’t mean it’s bunk. It’s called science. Science adapts to facts. Unlike some people.

      Also, Kris didn’t say the green movement began ten years ago. She said there was a “resurgence.”

      • Gail says:

        I don’t deny that industries profit off of fossil fuels. Do you deny “environmental” efforts profit off of their efforts ?

  41. Nancy says:

    I loved your article! Thanks so much for speaking your Truth (our Truth). It can be so overwhelming the things that need to be addressed. One step at a time! Some days it’s my own backyard hugging a huge tree ? or nurturing my garden. I guess what I’m saying if we were all conscience of what is around us would be a good start. The environment will give back in spades.
    Keep learning and moving forward!
    In Peace and Light,
    Blessings to you for caring so much and voicing that care!
    The Earth ? loves you?
    Well done

  42. I was cleaning out my overflowing inbox and unsubscribing from those I tend to skip. I teetered as I thought of unsubscribing to yours (I know, it’s terrible to admit this to you). After all, I started drinking green drinks about five years ago because of you. I make them for everybody around me and each of them quickly become addicted because, well, who doesn’t want to feel energized and be healthy? But I already knew everything you represented, didn’t I? Well, I thought, maybe I’ll read this one last one blog about the dying mama and baby whale. Wow! It opened an entirely new window into the big heart of Kris Carr. Now I am going to re-post it on my Facebook page, “One Person Acted and Everything Changed”, from my book by the same name. Thank you for sharing this critically important message, that seems to be getting lost even on supposedly aware people everywhere. Time is of the essence, and we CAN fix climate change. That’s important to know. But it is going to take the kind of courage you spoke of, wherein people are willing to open their eyes and embrace the facts, and then act. Thank you Kris Carr, you are STILL my she-ro and I’ll never ponder unsubscribing again!

  43. Mylene says:

    I appreciate your post. As for myself, I tend to avoid news as much as possible throughout the day most of the time. I see so much information about the destruction of the natural world, and of animals and people too, and it feels like such a powerful force of destruction, and I don’t feel able to do anything to stop it, much less turn it around. Which is why I avoid the messenger. I want to do something besides signing online petitions, or donating financial support to candidates, which doesn’t make sense to my own budget or even in my mind, because I know Citizens United allows corporations and wealthy private donors to outspend every liberal in the world * 2. I want to help but I don’t know how, so I ignore the information when I need to, which is often. I’m overwhelmed by it, but can’t think of a solution.

  44. Melissa says:

    I struggle so much with all the cruelty and suffering in the world (animals and human). I wish I could lose myself in sleep but, instead, I spend a lot of sleepless nights with a brain that I can not turn off. As a 16 year survivor of cancer, I think my emotional health is as important as my physical health but it’s a challenge trying to remain positive and hopeful.

  45. jenny says:

    I agree with you wholeheartedly, Kris! Our environment should be our number one priority. Everything else…. while it may be important, means nothing if we destroy our earth. I don’t even know why there’s a controversy over whether or not our actions affect climate change; shouldn’t we strive to take care of the earth regardless? It’s our only home! Clean air and water is something that is vital to all of us.

    I strive to take of our planet in my own little way and speak up for the environment when I can. And I salute you for speaking up, too! Peace & love to you! <3

  46. Donna says:

    “Be the Change WE want to SEE” > RIGHT! Thank you for this Kris! I do little things to help but you have inspired me to go bigger and better! I’m on my 3rd year of B-School and hadn’t known what to do with it until this morning. My third eye is glaring with the word “EDUCATE”, volunteer, spread the word!

    • Edde says:

      as usual you are on the money it is a sad state of afairs that so many don’t get it! my comment to folks is maybe, if a polar bear floats on a piece of ice down the hudson river they might believe in global warming.
      I/ve seen beached dead seals in Ca. many. when big money dorsn’t care it is difficult.

  47. Linda says:

    I am a vegan and animal rights activist. I support many animal and environmental causes and constantly sign petitions etc. that are sent to government officials both here and around the world. Telling your representatives your feelings is a good way to help make a difference. Many of them will respond and let you know what they have done regarding the specific issue you are writing about . It only takes a few minutes of your time but it really can make a difference.

  48. Jaye says:

    The meat and dairy industry are rarely ever mentioned when the news and media bring up climate change as god knows what would happen if people had to give up their animal products!! People who go on and on about the environment, governments, the mining industries, etc and then sit down to a big steak for dinner are clueless as to the impact their meal has on the environment. The first place to start is your plate of food. We will never have peace on this planet as long as we are slaughtering animals and stealing their babies. Grass fed, free range etc are just terms to make humans feel less guilty about chowing down on their animal meals. There is no peaceful death and these animals are smarter and more instinctual than we give them credit for. Mother cows still cry for days when their babies are yanked away and they fall to their knees when they know they are heading to slaughter. The amount of natural resources that go into farming animals for human consumption is staggering.
    Simon Amstell has a brilliant mockumentary called Carnage. Highly recommended.
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=930Xef1ri4M

  49. Beth Simon says:

    Kris, thank you for your passion and speaking up! You know, and I know, but many others may not know that the single most destructive activity humans do to the environment is a result of large scale industrial animal agriculture, which creates ginormous quantities of methane gas that releases into the atmosphere — far more then than from cars, trucks, buses! The one thing each and everyone one of us can do is to stop using animals. By choosing a vegan lifestyle, we not only save the planet, but we do the morally right thing by ending animal suffering!

  50. Kara says:

    I just recently finished an article about the effects of single-use plastics on our environment and particularly our oceans. I have commited myself and encouraged my (small amount of) followers to reduce or eliminate the use of these plastics. As Kris says, it seems small and insignificant but I need to keep reminding myself that if we all do something small that positively effects the environment, we can make a large impact. I’m constantly reminding people that we can ‘vote with our wallets’ so to speak,and dramatically reduce the demand for single use plastics or factory farmed meat, genetically modified crops, or whatever cause you support. No market = no money, and that’s where it hits them the hardest. Thanks, Kris!

  51. Susan says:

    Thank you Kris for speaking up. Recently I joined a book club where I work and the topic was climate change. These books were the most depressing thing for me to read, but it really resolved me to do my small part. In one of the books (The Sixth Extinction) it talks about hyperobjects which refers to the whole subject of why people can’t understand climate change. Hyperobjects such as climate change are so vast and large and span multiple human generations. Since it is hard to see the end and it stretchs so far into the future, humans only witness aspects of them at the present time. This is why people can’t see what climate change and humans are doing to the environment. I try to remember this when I get frustrated with the people who deny or don’t care. I try to make it smaller and more personal for them and always hope for the best with everyone. Your are right we need to do our small part and it will make a difference.

  52. Lysa says:

    I was also lamenting on earth friendly movements from the 80’s and my confidence at the time in a cleaner eco-conscious future that sadly never was realized. . Thank you so much Kris for using your far reaching audience to bring up such valid reasons for the disconnect – I struggle with those feelings too. What baffles me is how the unfortunate situation on United Air caused stock to plummet almost immediately, but we don’t do the same when it comes to bad practices in food, environment and other toxic offenders. There is so much power behind the decisions of what we purchase. We may not agree or even have a voice within with our current political environment but we most certainly can band together in making a statement by how we choose to spend our money. Of course the causes are many, but we can make a difference if we really want to. Someone simply needs to step up and lead the way…hint, hint!

  53. Kathy says:

    Thankyou

  54. I would add “Sea Shepherd” to the list! According to the book “Power vs. Force”, courage is the energetic state right in the middle between the energies that bring us down and the ones that are positive. Courage is the place where something clicks. So if you feel down don’t necessarily strive for joy and love and such beautiful states that can feel inaccessible, strive for courage and from there build up. Love you Kris, I feel like you are waking up even more than before to what you really believe in and I am so happy you are. It inspires me to do the same!
    Love from France,
    Cécile

  55. Erin White says:

    I am involved with the Sierra Club and Greenpeace but all I really do is read their emails and sign their petitions. I know I could do more and you have inspired me to get more involved. I don’t know how yet, but I’ll figure it out. Thanks!

  56. Anjala V says:

    The big interest groups aka the bankers are very clever. You were shown a segment on whales amid the climate confusion but what about the devastation caused by the bombing and mess in the Middle East and the starving beautiful babies in Yemen being bombed with weapons supplied by the US and UK as money talks and lives don’t matter. We need to connect the dots of the bigger picture – there is an amazing article on the current GreenMedInfo by a Mr Latham that is on ‘The Meaning of Life’ and the manipulation of science since the 1930’s. All this is coming out now but we do have to be streetwise and not manipulated by what the media wants us to focus on. Follow the money . Also, “The Truth About Vaccines’ currently playing on the internet is excellent and a real eye-opener. With love.

    • Dennis says:

      Agree, The Truth about Vaccines is a great enlightening revelation of the actions of Big Pharma.
      Big Pharma are also into supplements and one of these is Krill oil which is harvested in great nets in the Southern Ocean to the detriment of the whales. Krill is their natural food. We want to save the whales. Therefore we should do everything to save their food supply.

    • Carolyn says:

      This is why Kris left a link to contact your local representative– and to also see how they vote on issues. There are a ton of “other issues” OUT THERE—this is WHY it’s so important that each of us do what we can. The bombings with weapons supplied by the U.S. and the U.K. all come down to how Congress, the Pentagon, and that guy in the White House react, and as you know—any kind of REAL CHANGE is a long, tedious process at the legislative level. The U.S. dropped that M.O.A.B. in an isolated area in Afghanistan that reportedly killed a handful of Islamic State members—a preventative act? who knows, perhaps one of those Islamic State members was about to carry out another terrorist act. I did not vote for the current president, and at this point, the only thing many individuals can do—whether it’s about climate change, the current commander in chief, the bombings, homelessness, child abuse, corruption, fraud, (insert problem here:___), is what they’re currently doing, protesting, demonstrating, etc. Do something— or don’t, it’s a choice. Right?

  57. Pearl says:

    P.S. There are thousands of organizations-local ,national and international, you can be a part of..or start one ! Especially as the ones listed are mostly US based-many of us live elsewhere : )

  58. Pearl says:

    Dear Kris, THANK YOU so much for speaking out on your well- earned platform.We all want to hear and talk about the good things in life more,and remind each other that every one of us has an important contribution to make. We think that negative actions dominate the planet,but it’s not true!!! Media just finds the negatve more saleable! Time to counterbalance with the good news we create and share. : )

    • Ann says:

      As someone who feels a need to voice an opinion, I agree Pearl. I’m based in South Africa, but am rather lost as to where to start with something like this. I’m sure finance comes into it and if one doesn’t have the means, what is one to do?
      I love the messages being sent, but feel so overwhelmed a lot of the time …

  59. Lindsay says:

    We face similar issues in the UK – a right-wing government that prioritises economic growth over the environment and looks after its own – eg the tax system is skewed towards the well-off and big business. We face the huge challenge of BREXIT – our environmental, labour rights, animal welfare legislation etc is EU legislation and it will be a huge battle to get that enshrined in EU law with all the free-market philosophy that dominates our government. We (the taxpayers) bailed out the finacial sector 8 years ago and they never paid us back – they literally laughed all the way to the bank!!! I am not optimistic. We won’t change the situation via politics because the voting system is skewed to support the Conservatives. I hope we can make inroads via grass roots action but we are a sadly divided nation and all the old prejudices are returning – Brexit and Trump seem to be legitimising racism and other forms of ignorant phobia.

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