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Alumni Spotlight
Between lessons in community building and ecological stewardship, the Rising Earth Immersion program has afforded me time. Living in this society’s capitalistic structure, our time is commodified. The community here at the Eco-Institute tells us differently…
What has it felt like for me, as a Black woman, to participate in and then lead the Rising Earth Immersion? And what is now possible for BIPOC who are interested in joining this dedicated, healing-driven, ever-evolving community?
We sang a gratitude song before the meal, thanking the Earth and each of the meals’ contributors for their acts of generosity. It felt like a homecoming. I started attending the bi-weekly garden volunteer days, buoyed by the laughter and peace that come from the simplest of tasks in community: spreading mulch, pulling out tomato vines, or struggling to build a greenhouse. I showed up to the story nights, fire circles, and potlucks, reveling in this way of being so dramatically different and more fulfilling from what I had known before…
Abbey Cmiel, graduate of the Rising Earth Immersion, sends an update, asking: how can humans be a beautiful and beneficial addition to the intricate web of life that exists?
The reality is, there are few people who want the rainforest deforested, or racial injustice, or the deepening of poverty. But our economic structure, in which corporations have power over both the economy and the government, allows for limitless destruction.
Since Rising Earth Immersion, Quadirah has moved to China to teach ESL through EnglishFirst. And, she’s using YouTube to promote mental health and holistic care, specifically for young people. Read more about what inspires her and where you can follow her work.
Vulnerability, reciprocity, and unconditional love are the main ingredients for a deep, spiritual bond. And that's what we were able to make while we were living together at The Eco-Institute at Pickards Mountain.
Jay’s will likely become a familiar face if you spend any time at The Eco-Institute (especially in the garden). Read a bit about his experience during the Rising Earth Immersion and what he’s up to now.
What is Abbey up to now after completing the Rising Earth Immersion in 2019?
