Environmental Kindness – Mahatma’s Way of Life That Promoted Sustainability and Equity
Charismatic thoughts yet simple in living is what defines Gandhiji. He was indeed well ahead of his time, with his futuristic vision. He knew the value of independence & sustenance. Throughout his life through his words & actions, he kept on reflecting the same. Gandhi considered the earth a living organism. He believed that “the universe was structured and informed by the cosmic spirit, that all men, all life and indeed all creation were one.” He wrote: “I believe in the advaita (non-duality), I believe in the essential unity of man and for that matter, of all that lives.” Gandhiji used to say, “without cooperation and sacrifice of both human and non-human beings evolution is not possible. Being rational human beings, we are the custodians of the rest of creation and should respect their rights and cherish the diversity.” He not only valued the essence of environmental interdependence but gave the idea of “Village Swaraj” and how to develop it; environmental protection being one of the most valued of them all.
His teaching of Satyagraha has not only influenced environmentalists but also protected many forests from being wiped out of existence, Chipko movement is one of the most remarkable example of “Forest Satyagraha”. In his words, since a “human being has no power to create life, he has, therefore no right to destroy life”. His words, his views, his works are the ideal guiding principle that we shall inspire us to protect the environment, respect the creation because all creations are one and for all. Each and every movement he led, each and every soul he inspired, he has taught us that his teachings should not be limited to just inspirations rather should turn into realities for the welfare of not only humankind but of the ‘environment-kind’. Let’s be kind to the environment, the way Gandhiji was kind to us with patience, dedication, zeal and gave us independence, it’s time to follow his path to give our environment independence from pollution & destruction.
SUHAIB SALMAN
Creative Head at Lawctopus & Noticebard
And Greenpeace volunteer