Stewardship

I recently came across a quote by John D. Rockefeller Jr. that states, “Think of giving not as a duty but as a privilege.”  I really like the essence of this thought and as stewards of this planet, I also feel it is an important idea that we need to wholeheartedly embrace.  Giving can mean so many things to so many different people. You can choose from giving your money, time or your support.  But when I think of the word “privilege,” it leads me to a completely different place of giving.  What about the giving of our knowledge of planet stewardship to future generations?  If we teach them how to love, care for and maintain our environment, this can only foster sustainability for generations to come.  We are so fortunate to live on this beautiful home we call earth.  Our planet is a wondrous place from the deepest, coldest oceans to the highest mountaintops to the lush green rainforests.  Living here is a privilege that only we can honor by stepping lightly and showing our graciousness to Mother Earth.

Society often talks about inheritance.  You know, the money that you receive after a family member passes.  Some people inherit a lot of money or real estate from loved ones.  Others receive cherished family mementos.  All of these things are fine and good but wouldn’t it be great if we were able to pass down to our kids the gift of an environmentally sound planet and the awareness to help them sustain such a planet?  The dictionary definition of stewardship is “one who manages another’s property."  Caring for our children’s property is no small gesture my friends.  As we welcome the warm days of summer let us shower the earth with the kindness that she deserves so that our children’s children will have the same opportunity.

On our cover this issue, we would like to introduce you to Alec Cahaney.  Alec is a Royal Oak teen on a mission of giving.  Find out more about what this humble steward is doing for his community and how he is inspiring and mentoring other kids to do the same.  I don’t know about you, but just knowing there are people like Alec in the world fills me with hope for a brighter future. 

Linda Hasley
Managing Editor
editor@HealingGardenJournal.com

May/June 2009 Edition Online
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