Many of you know that some 10-7 years ago in my other vocation, I worked on Climate Change issues. My position lead me to many locations and Boards, one with the National Council of Churches Eco-Justice Working Group, I was graced to represent the Antiochian Orthodox archdiocese of North America, the faith of my birth and cultural, ethnic heritage.
As a priest daughter fasting was a normal part of living faith refraining breakfast every Sunday morning, meat every Wednesday & Friday. During lent abstinence included other fare: sound (TV & Radio), speech (quite time for reflection) but also included engagement in other forms of sustenance – caring for neighbors, sick, elderly. Today it seems strange, and harmful, which it can be if done by those frail, or if done with ego or detached from spirit. Intention is important with this…it is important to fill oneself when emptying with nourishment from love, joy, and spirit for strength.
Fasting has an ancient tradition, all faiths practice some form of it, the intention of it being a Self Sacrifice as a Petition to Source on behalf of self or others. Hunger Strikes are public political pleas demanding justice, seeking compassionate resolution; in essence open hearts of the oppressors affording liberation for all parties. Many practices overlap.
So when our children, some literally, others we created by our social constructs, gathered now in Copenhagen, for the [Climate] Conference Of the Parties (COP 15), are intentionally Hungering themselves for authentic leadership, I could not deny my participation in this profound opportunity to join our hearts.
Pictured here: Matthieu Balle’ of France, Sara Svenssen of Sweden & Anna Keen of Australia in Copenhagen COP 15
While one might think they are validly concerned for their own future, the economy, environment, health – yet what they are sacrificing self for are those without voice, those whose present is already witness to the linage of greed, those whose “foot prints” are the smallest yet will bear the heaviest burden.
Ravenousness for Authentic Leadership, from the governments, from the corporations, it matters only that the heart rules.
Standing witness with and for our children… will you join me?