Reflection from Anne on Earth Day

The sun shines bright, flowers are blooming, spring has sprung and Earth Day is upon us. The 50th Anniversary nonetheless.

For obvious reasons, Earth Day has been relegated to the backs of our minds this year. At this time of the year our care for creation is usually pretty front and center. Pope Francis tells us in his encyclical Laudato Si (2015) that “…everything is connected. Concern for the environment thus needs to be joined to a sincere love for our fellow human beings.” (91) Our Catholic Social Teaching goes on to teach us that our care for creation is paramount in our care for others - a requirement of our faith.

So how do we live Earth Day in the middle of a pandemic? How is our taking care of our common home today taking care of our neighbor? Interestingly enough, all around us there are signs. 

We are driving fewer miles in our vehicles and fewer miles driven means less emissions. Fewer airplanes in the air, especially, means less emissions, which means less smog. Result: cleaner air. Cleaner air to breathe, especially for those most vulnerable. Breathe in the Spirit.

I have heard many who have considered growing their own vegetables and fruits in a garden this year. Doing this small act so they do not have to go to the store so often. Doing this to protect themselves, their loved ones and vulnerable people in our society. If you have children – or even if you do not - perhaps this is the year to cultivate a garden, grow healthy food without chemicals. Share your bounty with the poor.

Around my neighborhood and in the parks, I observe many more people walking than before the pandemic. I wonder if this is because they may have more time now than before and other activities are closed/suspended. Being neighborly from a safe distance. Soaking in the wonder and awe of God in our midst. 

What lasting effect will this pandemic time have on our Earth Day habits? This pause from normal life gives us time to reflect on which of our habits negatively affect our common home and each other and which of those are life-giving to our Earth. Without even knowing it, we have been tending to creation, to Mother Earth, these last weeks, while staying at home caring for one another. 

Once the coronavirus is behind us, will any changes become part of who we are as Catholics caring for the Earth and each other? I do not know but we are people of joy and hope.