[vc_row][vc_column][vc_gallery type=”flexslider_slide” interval=”0″ images=”7655,7645,7646,7647,7649,7650,7652,7653,7654,7664″ img_size=”medium”][vc_column_text]In my time as a student at Jesuit Memorial College, I have been exposed to various teachings and principles, but one that truly captivated my attention is Cura Personalis. This beautiful concept emphasizes caring for the person as a whole, recognizing their entirety and uniqueness. However, today I wish to extend this principle to a broader context – the Earth itself.
Since long before our arrival, the Earth has been the dwelling place for all forms of life, a true masterpiece of God’s creation. Yet, the Earth does not exist solely for its own sake; it serves a greater purpose, which is to provide a habitat and preserve all living and non-living things entrusted to it by God. The ecological balance of our planet has allowed us and countless other species to evolve and ensure the continuity of life. In essence, without the existence of the Earth, the chances of our own existence would be negligible. Now that we understand this, it is time to introduce my adapted concept.
The Green Scenario is the notion that, apart from pursuing our individual aspirations, we, as human beings of the Earth, exist not only for ourselves but to safeguard our home. Every day of our lives should be dedicated to acting in ways that promote the sustainability of Earth’s beauty, both above and beneath its surface. This responsibility represents one of the most essential purposes of our existence. Consider this: the Earth cannot care for itself entirely. It cannot eliminate ozone depletion, remove plastic waste from the oceans, spontaneously grow forests, or restore eroded lands. That is why we exist – to care for the Earth and enable it to fulfill its purpose without disruption. Unfortunately, this fundamental duty seems to be overlooked.
In his book “Think Like a Monk,” author Jay Shetty aptly wrote that unless we cleanse the ecology of our own hearts and inspire others to do the same, we will continue to be agents of pollution. The Green Scenario embraces this idea, emphasizing that our actions are first born in our hearts and minds. Unless we cultivate pure intentions and thoughts, our actions will inevitably be tainted. Before taking any action, we must ask ourselves how it contributes to the well-being of others and the world. For instance, if we mindlessly discard empty biscuit packets on the streets, passersby, our children, and people in their cars witness this act. We are not conveying the right message. We must remember that pollution anywhere on Earth is pollution everywhere on Earth. It is not solely the responsibility of anti-plastic campaigns or environmental protection agencies to save the Earth; it is the collective responsibility of every individual with a beating heart and breath.
At Jesuit Memorial College, we have implemented a ban on single-use plastics and promote the use of biodegradable packaging whenever feasible. In this regard, the College administrators are unwittingly subscribing to the principles of the Green Scenario. I invite each and every one of you to reflect on how your actions have both contributed to and deviated from the Green Scenario. Let us make a conscious effort to act for the common good of the Earth and everything God has bestowed upon it, within it, and beyond. By embracing the essence of Cura Personalis, we can care for the Earth and create a greener, more sustainable future.
AMAH Chizitelum Macanthony
Class of 2024.
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