The Death of Life

“This frigid sea was a speckled mass of organisms. Tiny copepod crustaceans, looking like so many animated peas, beat their way in their thousands through the surface waters, feeding on plankton that I knew must be there, but which could not be seen without a microscope.” That picture of vitality in the Arctic begins the …
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Waking up to System Collapse

As the dawn crept through the curtains this morning, my dreamy thoughts recalled the gathering of people who had listened to Jem Bendell talking about his new book Breaking Together yesterday evening. It occurred that we could have had it all but, as I had known for some years now, that opportunity had passed. And …
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Keep Calm and Carry On … With Monarchy?

The recent coronation of King Charles in the UK prompted us to reflect on the role of monarchy in our world today. Pam and Tom, one brought up in suburban Canada the other in privileged boarding schools, share their perspectives.

George Floyd murdered. America living in fear of itself. Change is your choice.

It’s still happening. Don’t forget. George Perry Floyd Jr. (October 14, 1973 – May 25, 2020) was an African-American man who was murdered by a police officer in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He is one of many. He would have been 50 this year. Racism is a part of America. The only way to extinguish it, heal …
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The Carlow Butlers

A nice little video of family history focusing on the story from Edmund of Cloughgrennan a rebel for Irish self-determination who collaborated with Fiach McHugh O’Byrne in the 14th century, to one of his current descendants. Thanks to Carlow Toursim who coordinated this production, M Co for filming and editing, Tymandra for narration. More history …
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Spring Notes: St Brigid, Gardening, Trees, Horse, Furniture Design, History

Spring in Ireland launched with a new festival: St Brigid’s Day!  It was a timely reminder of the strength of the feminine and the human sense of justice and care for nature. As you know, we love nature here at Ballin Temple and we took the opportunity to reflect on the changes in Ireland since …
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astraea speaks

Lyla June speaks about the history and culture of humans in North America before Europeans invaded in 3,000-year-old solutions to modern problems. She offers a path to regenerating the vitality of Earth which resonates deeply with the ideas that have attracted astraea to change course and re-imagine the future. Thank you Lyla June.