“If the youth aren’t taught how to take care of the earth, they will inherit a burning house.” Makhosi Kulah Makhosina
One thing that deeply troubles me in this country, and especially within our community, is the amount of waste we produce. We waste food, water, and natural resources – often without a second thought. What pains me most is that we do this in front of our children, rearing a generation that grows more and more disconnected from the earth. These children will soon become the new stewards of this planet. The question is – are we preparing them to honor and care for it?
When I was growing up, anyone who spoke about connecting with nature was quickly labeled a “tree hugger” or “hippie.” But through my journey of studying indigenous wisdom from across the world, I’ve come to see something universal: indigenous people, no matter where they are from, recognize the earth as a living being. They understand that we are interconnected with the land, water, and sky. Unfortunately, in today’s society, many of us have drifted further away from this truth, numbed by technology and disconnected lifestyles.
Research continues to affirm what indigenous traditions have known for thousands of years – the earth heals us. From forest bathing in Japan to grounding practices that reconnect us with the soil beneath our feet, these are not new inventions but ancient ways of living that we’ve forgotten.
An African proverb says, “The young will look back at the old to learn how to walk.” Sit with that for a moment. If our youth look back today, what will they see? Generations before us lived with balance and respect for the earth. Indigenous communities are still here, holding this wisdom, waiting for us to humble ourselves and learn. The truth is simple: when we harm the earth, we harm ourselves.
What good is it to build new schools, create youth programs, or develop mentorship initiatives if we fail to teach young people the most fundamental lesson of all – what it means to be human and connected to the earth?
We already have the blueprint. It’s within us and within the wisdom of those who came before us. It requires us to expand our awareness, to look beyond the systems we cling to, and to reawaken ancient practices that sustained life for generations.
The indigenous perspective on caring for the earth is not just important – it is urgent. Our children must be taught the reality of who they are and their unbreakable connection to the Great Mother. Otherwise, we risk handing them a burning house without the tools to put out the fire.
It’s time for us to stop burying our heads in the dirt, pretending not to see what’s happening to our planet. We do have the power to make a difference – but it will require us to step out of our comfort zones and try something new. The path we’ve been walking is not working. We must be honest about that.
The earth is calling us back to remembrance. The youth are watching us, and the ancestors are guiding us. The question is – will we listen?
The only way out…
Is in.
