A SELECTION FROM THE CHINOOK PSALTER
Wildfires are raging once again in our western states, eating up fast swaths of trees. Watching these fires burn out if control is difficult because they are destroying homes, jobs and lives of many people. Environmental scientists tell us that the weather patterns are changing, caused mostly by global warming. These weather changes are bringing more droughts, which cause more fires. Of course, when the trees are lost, so is their carbon sink capabilities. Not only that, but habitats for many species of plants and animals are also lost. We can and should support groups that replant forested areas and better manage forested areas before fires begin.
However, addressing the warming planet will take an enormous effort to change “HEARTS AND MINDS '' to see the importance of working in harmony with nature as more important than thinking of nature as being ours to conquer. Listening to local community members as well as reading poems and prayers like the Chinook Psalter Selection below might help policy makers think more in terms of working in harmony with nature.
May all I say and all I think be in harmony with thee,
God within me, God beyond me, maker of the trees
In me be the windswept truth of the shore-pine fragrance of balsam
And spruce, the grace of the hemlock.
In me be the strength of Douglas fir, straight, tall, strong trunked land hero
Of fireproof bark, sheltering tree of life, cedars’ truth be mine, cypress truth,
Juniper aroma, strength of yew.
May all I say and all I think be in harmony with thee,
God within me, God beyond me, maker of the trees.
In me be the truth of stream-lover willow, soil giving alder. Hazel of sweet
Nuts, wisdom-branching oak, In the joy of crab-apple, great-maple,
Vine-maple, cleansing cascara and lovely dogwood and the great truth of
The copper-branched arbutus, bright with color and fragrance, be with me
On earth.
May all I say and all I think be in harmony with thee, God within me and
God beyond me, maker of the trees.
EARTH STEWARD ACTION: Consider giving generously to any organization that plants trees (a good one to think about is Arbor Day Foundation). Plant native trees in your yard.
SOURCES: The Chinook Psalter Selection was from the book, “Earth Prayers From Around the World, edited by Elizabeth Roberts and Elias Amidon. You may find information about planting trees in National Forests by going to WWW.arbordayfoundation,org