Today’s post explores capitalism’s impact on society and the planet, questioning consumerism’s role in happiness. It suggests the gift economy, as advocated by Robin Wall Kimmerer, offers an alternative rooted in reciprocity and gratitude. Emphasizing sharing rather than hoarding, the piece presents examples of gift economies to inspire a shift towards sustainable living.
The Sunday Spark – Create or consume? What’s your thing?
An inspiring sign recently prompted some thought about the positive impact of creative endeavours as opposed to passive consumption. This week’s edition of The Sunday Spark explores this create or consume question, along with foods that protect us from microplastics, a new YouTube channel to educate kids about climate change, and degrowth as an alternative to consumption.
The big lie of convenience culture
Convenience. On the surface, it sounds so appealing. But have the things that promised to simplify life delivered on their pledges? Or has convenience culture just complicated our lives and put our happiness, our relationships, and ultimately our lives, at risk?
Today’s post has 10 ways you can reject convenience culture and regain control of your life, your health, and your time.
It’s National Iced Tea Day – Sweet or unsweet?
Here in North America, we love iced tea. June 10 is National Iced Tea Day — part of National Iced Tea Month in the United States and Canada. To celebrate, today’s post looks at the history of this refreshing summer drink. And, as a bonus, I share my simple iced tea recipe.
The Sunday Spark – Empathy puts problems in perspective
When wildfires 3000 kilometres away disrupted my travel plans this week, it provided a lesson in how empathy can help us keep our own problems in perspective.
In addition to thoughts on empathy, this week’s edition of The Sunday Spark looks at the power of mindset, the slippery slope of weight-loss drugs, and the loosening of Ontario’s recycling regulations.
What mom really wants for Mother’s Day
On Sunday, we celebrate Mother’s Day in North America. Are you still looking for that perfect gift? Look no further! Let me tell you what mom really wants for Mother’s Day. You might be surprised.
The Sunday Spark – What will be our legacy for future generations?
At the conference I attended in Kelowna last week, a short talk about our relationship with the land and our legacy for future generations made a big impact. Learn more in today’s edition of The Sunday Spark, along with the politics of climate change, SunDay, electric ferries, and the joy of thrifting.
The Sunday Spark – A thoughtful return to social media
After a 6-week break from Facebook and Instagram during Lent, I hesitated to return to social media on Easter Sunday morning. This week’s edition of The Sunday Spark looks at my plan to use social media more intentionally, the Arbor Day Foundation’s ambitious tree-planting goal, plans to fully power Vatican City with solar power, and more.
The Sunday Spark – Wishing you the hope of the Easter season
Happy Easter! In this week’s edition of The Sunday Spark I wish you the hope of the Easter season—something the world desperately needs right now. And I’ve got good news on electric vehicle reliability, the Welsh sharing economy, and restoring the tiger population.
Stillness – A poem to restore calm
Hello friends. I’m away this weekend, calming the busyness of life at our Alpha weekend. As I pondered my need for stillness this week, I wrote a poem that I wanted to share with you. I hope you enjoy it!