- John F. Kennedy
"There is one spectacle grander than the sea, that is the sky; there is one spectacle grander than the sky, that is the interior of the soul. "
-Victor Hugo
Today my boys and I went with friends out into the great Pacific. It was a gorgeous, shining day that reminded me again how fortunate we are to live here in California.
But, at the same time, I could not turn my thoughts away from the waters of the Gulf of Mexico, which are spilling over with BP's oil. It is reported to have eclipsed the Exxon Valdez as the largest oil spill in U.S. history.
I know many of you are as heartbroken and angry as I am over this tragedy. I have been praying for the sea, for all the life that dwells within it, and for all the wonderful people who live along the coastline. But, I am tired of sitting on my hands. I want to do something! So I thought I would post some links to different ways to help. They may seem small, but each person's efforts CAN help.
HOW TO HELP
While those responsible for this well blow out are covering
the cost of the Gulf of Mexico clean-up, you can support the
ongoing work of the non-profit organizations currently on the ground
preparing to respond to oiled wildlife. You can support International Bird Rescue's ongoing
rescue work by donating,
becoming a member or
adopting a bird.
The National Audubon Society is recruiting volunteers in the fight to save "ecologically sensitive areas." Visit their website to fill out a volunteer registration form.
The National Wildlife Federation, in partnership with its colleagues in the Gulf states, is recruiting volunteers for an "extensive volunteer wildlife surveillance network."
The next link will take you to the EPA's site for ways to help and more information to post at your blog or how to follow updates on Twitter and Facebook:
http://www.epa.gov/bpspill/whatyoucando.html
Most everyone has hair (if not on their head then on their pet)...Matter of Trust, a non-profit organization is inviting salons, pet groomers and the abundantly coiffed to send leftover hair trimmings for use in highly absorbent hair mats and booms. According to their website, "Hair is very efficient at collecting oil out of the air, off surfaces like your skin and out of the water, even petroleum oil."
The group boasts twelve locations across region that are ready to receive human and pet hair, and hundreds of volunteers participating in "Boom B Q" parties stuffing the donated locks into recycled nylons to form booms that can be strung along beaches and marshes. Related link: Organization combing country for spare hair to fight oil slick
Speak Up for Cleaner Energy Choices - Tell your senators that now more than ever we need to pass comprehensive legislation that provides America with cleaner and safer energy choices. Speak up and let your voice be heard!
And lastly, please keep the people and creatures of the Gulf in your prayers.
- Sogyal Rinpoche
A wonderful post, lovely One. Lots of good info. to help us feel a little less powerless in the face of this tragic, tragic disaster.
My heart cries too...
Posted by: Kim Mailhot | May 29, 2010 at 07:54 AM
Thank you for this post, Kelly. I feel the same heart break...I know so many who do. Having some suggestions about how to empower us with more than just prayer is wonderful ! I linked to your list on my blog today.
Big love to you, Lovely Heart.
Posted by: Kim Mailhot | May 29, 2010 at 08:42 AM
Thanks for the important info Kelly!!! I wish I had extra hair to donate!
Posted by: Maija Lepore | May 29, 2010 at 12:18 PM
Beautiful...and thank you.
Posted by: Kathy | May 30, 2010 at 07:05 AM
Thank You for this post dear friend of my heart! Your beautiful message will surely move people to take action and help. It is truly easy to send messages to government officials online. Search out your local or state .gov websites or go straight to the white house at www.whitehouse.gov/CONTACT/ or do both! Today I light another candle for the Sea.
Posted by: Mija | May 30, 2010 at 11:12 AM
Thank you so much for posting this. I live in Southeast Louisiana and my Mom and Step-Dad are Crab Fishermen. I didn't know how to help but I will visit the links you've provided. The oil spill has and will affect so many lives in our state and neighboring states for such a long time.
Posted by: Sandy | May 30, 2010 at 06:13 PM
Thank you for providing these empowering resources. This tragic catastrophe has the potential to really deflate the spirits of so many. I did recently read and hear on NPR that the hair project has been halted - something about not knowing how to dispose of the oil soaked hair booms, I believe. So boxes of hair are sitting, in storage...
sending out prayers for the wellness of all, Karin
Posted by: Karin | June 01, 2010 at 06:24 AM
yes, thank you for this post.
xo...
Tara
Posted by: tara | June 01, 2010 at 03:42 PM
What a wonderful post you have made. Such a kind-hearted person. I will visit those links. Thank you for posting.
Posted by: Dive Boracay | June 01, 2010 at 05:37 PM