PERMACULTURE ETHICS
While we are living on this planet we have the choice either to carry on living as we are now and know that we will destroy life on Earth, or we can decide to live in a way that sustains life on Earth. The choice is the starting point for Permaculture.
To sustain life on Earth we have the basic ethics of;
Earth care
People care
and Fair shares
Earth Care
This covers a wide range from caring for GAIA as a whole living system; respecting the earths magma and central core; the deep rejuvenating water cycle that gives spring water it's minerals and full life energy; the soil and its myriad life giving fertility; the animals and plants of all shapes and sizes that live on it, under it, or in the air; the air we breathe; the water cycle with mists, rain, rivers and sea; and out into the moon, sun and planets that influence life on Earth.
People Care
Providing for humans basic needs of health, food, water, shelter, warmth and community are essential for all people on Earth.
Permaculture is about providing these:
Growing food using and building natural fertility.
Understanding how to catch and store water and keep its natural cycle flowing.
Learning how to build with natural and local materials.
Providing heat for keeping warm and cooking using the Earth's natural energy and renewable resources.
Building local community to provide our basic need to interact with other humans.
Using simple accessible techniques to keep us healthy rather than relying on the technological medicine chest that is un-affordable for many people on Earth.
Supporting and caring for people we interact with.
Caring for our personal essential needs so that we are capable of caring for others.
Purchasing Fair Trade goods and banking with an ethical Bank Triodos.
Having fun with life, singing, dancing and giving.
The following Eight Direction Exercise helps me stretch my body and prepare for the day ahead and it takes less than 10 minutes.
Fair Shares
This is about using the resources that we need and, if we have surplus using these to help others Care for the Earth and Care for People. Sharing and cooperation, rather than greed and hording resources to make profit. These resources may be physical goods, food, land, money, time or information. Give away surplus. Developing a gift economy helps this process.
"If you have two coats, ask yourself who the second one belongs to." (Jeff)
