Tis good to hear of those that speak of connectedness to all living things, for I believe that spawns some empathy and then goes further to affect our
decision making sometimes, to include how others are/may be affected. We are much more dependent on the Earth than she is of us, so feeling more
connected to her generates more of a sense of responsibility for the inhabitants, because, as you mentioned, what we do and don't do has wider range
of affects than most realize.
Enlightenment, usually includes some type of connectedness to someone or something, and leaves an afterprint of enchantment and gratitude. Sometimes
a newfound pride arises from this "being a part of" notion, and our actions change as a result.
I moved to Oregon because I wanted to be with the hippies. They were the only slice of culture I could relate to in terms of applying and discussing
the expanded awareness I had gained though my curious endeavors. They love the Earth, they are conscientious about their actions, they cultivate
creativity and they are less judgmental. Of course there is good and bad in all slices of culture, and I eventually moved out of pure "hippidom" to
a more balanced stance. I would certainly say I am "hippyish" though, but not a purist. Yes I hug a tree every now and then, and I have plenty of
tie-dyes I wear, but I am me, not any specific type, more of a little of this and that. That being said, I don't think there is anything wrong with
committing to a particular set of values or group either, it is what makes us human. Just always leave a little room for growth.
I am part hippie, redneck, headbanger, athlete, liberal, conservative, artist and nerd.
So just because one feels certain attributes of an established culture, does not mean that becomes their totality, we are much more complex than
that. However, a general shift in one's behavior and outlook can be a good thing and if it comes from the heart, run with it.
I think what it comes down to is more love in your heart from the understanding of our place in this world, which entails more compassion and
tolerance, something that imo the world can always use more of. I am reminded of a Native American stance that we are the guardians of this planet,
and not the owners. I feel much better being a part of our world rather than being separate and maintaing a dominion over it.
Peace,
spec