Rather than belong, we prefer to be in charge. We’re the apex predator – the masters of the planet. Of the universe! We own land. Build castles. Mark out borders. This is mine. Stay away!
It’s tomfoolery, really. Because the truth is, the Earth does not belong to us – we belong to it.
And even if we were in charge, let’s be honest – we’re dreadful at managing this planet. Maybe it’s time to admit the truth: we belong to the Earth. The Earth doesn’t belong to us.
Humbling? It should be.
Every cell in our bodies comes from the Earth. The food we eat, the air we breathe, the water we drink – borrowed, all of it. Yet we act as if we’re separate, as if nature is something “out there.” But belonging isn’t about ownership. It’s about relationship.
To belong to the Earth is to be part of something vast, ancient and interconnected. It means understanding that when we harm the planet, we harm ourselves. When we nurture it, we thrive together.
So why do we struggle with this idea?
Maybe it’s because belonging comes with responsibility. It’s easier to see ourselves as rulers than as caretakers. Easier to take than to give.
But here’s the question we need to face: If we truly believed we belong to the Earth, what would change?
What would you change?
The Earth isn’t asking for permission to exist. It’s asking us to remember where we came from – and where we belong.
Take a moment to reflect on this question. What does it mean to you to belong to the Earth? Is it about connection? Responsibility? Gratitude? Once you have your answer, ask yourself: How can I live in a way that honours that belonging?
Simon
#ClimateAction #Sustainability #BelongingToEarth #Nature #Environment #Reflection #24QuestionsToSaveTheWorld #PlanetCare #ConnectionToNature #Responsibility
3 responses to “Q2. What Does It Mean to ‘Belong’ to the Earth?”
Q2. What Does It Mean to ‘Belong’ to the Earth?
Thanks, Simon. An important question. Here are some Cooper thoughts.
The countryside should be seen as an ally, a friend, however inhospitable and traumatic it can sometimes be, and regardless of the liberties we take with it. The Gautama Buddha recognised this 2500 years ago, when he wrote “The forest is a peculiar organism of unlimited kindness and benevolence that makes no demands for its sustenance and extends generously the products of its life activity. It affords protection to all beings, offering shade even to the axeman who destroys it”. The father of wildlife management, Aldo Leopold, said “When we see land as a community to which we belong, we may begin to use it with love and respect” A naturalist takes deep pleasure at being in the countryside in all weathers and thereby being part of the lives of plants and animals and the natural balance of the earth – not just observing Nature from afar or, horror of horrors, just on a television or computer screen. Thoughts from Margaret: John’s points above are valid but I wonder how possible it is to feel connected to the earth if one lives in a high-rise flat in the heart of a city? How much do those, who can live in the countryside or within easy reach of it, provide an opportunity to experience a connection to earth for those who do not have the means to do so? John & Margaret Cooper (at Heathrow, en route to Kenya)
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Dear John and Margaret,
Thank you for sharing your thoughts – they add something special to this question. The quotes you included are powerful reminders of the kindness and balance nature offers, even when we take it for granted.
Margaret raises such an important point about those living in cities. It’s true that not everyone has easy access to the countryside. Maybe part of our responsibility is finding ways to bring nature closer to people – through green spaces, community projects, or even encouraging small steps like planting on balconies or noticing urban wildlife.
I love John’s reminder about being out in the countryside in all weathers. That sense of belonging through experience – not just watching from a screen – is so important. That said, a screen might be the only way some people can stay connected with the natural world.
Wishing you safe travels to Kenya, and thank you for sharing your thoughts!
Best wishes,
Simon
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