As we approach the UN Climate Change Conference (COP26), 31 October to 12 November 2021, the eyes of the world are on Glasgow, a former industrial and shipbuilding city in Scotland. The talk is of mitigation, adaptation and climate finance, of limiting the rise in global temperatures and harmful emissions.
It is easy to feel confused, even lost, amid the jargon and the torrent of facts and figures. Climate anxiety is growing, especially among younger age groups: Notably, in a recent interview, Britain’s Prince William highlighted his concern for his young family.
And yet there is so much we can do, individually and collectively, to raise our thinking to a place of hope and to believe in action as a force for good.
The first step is to recognise that every single one of us can access an inner world that is far richer than any material possessions the external world has to offer. Once we recognise this, our acquisitiveness—the desire to possess material wealth and objects, the urge to achieve status in the world— diminishes.
Instead of measuring ourselves against others in a spirit of competition, straining to outdo their success, we choose to connect with our inner self and draw strength from the Supreme. The way to do this is through meditation, the quiet focusing of all our energy on the deeper consciousness that lies like a tranquil lake at the very core of our being.
With time and practice, our striving evaporates and we achieve a balance—calm, fulfilled, and genuinely, deeply happy. A little further down the road, we begin to stabilise in this state, so that, no matter what happens, we are able to maintain the balance.
The qualities we are rediscovering translate into a different way of living, and a new way of interacting with the world. No longer either needy or greedy, we are content with a simple lifestyle and grateful for what we have. Our inner transformation creates an outer balance between ourselves and others—and, indeed, all of nature.
With the generosity of spirit, we are ready to put our abundant energy to positive use, doing whatever we can to care for the environment and for those around us. There is nothing forced or insincere about this: It comes naturally and surprisingly easily. As we repeat these actions, they become part of our own nature, ingrained habits of kindness and care for others.
Imagine what the world would be like if we joined together to apply these qualities at the community, national, or even international, level! Multilateral talks would go smoothly, agreements would follow quickly, and action would be taken unhesitatingly.
Sylvia Ismail is a writer and editor with a background in public affairs, radio broadcasting, and journalism.