-- by Dan Hughes

I asked current participants in Earth Institute courses for comments on their experience in the courses, and here's what they said.

Bioregional Perspective / Discovering a Sense of Place

This course considers the potential benefits of knowing and protecting our place. Will a commitment to our local bioregion affect our willingness to accept responsibility to care for the earth?

Comments of current participants:

• "The class...has provided a focus on why places in my life are central to my well-being, which places I love most. It has provided direction for future action and much information. I especially appreciate info. on Central Ohio."
• "I am amazed at the connections -- internal and external -- I am making as a result of taking this class...connecting with the land, with people, and with myself." --Cheryl Best
• "The concept of place is what I think is a poetic endeavor. And when you meet in a group, it is wonderful how everyone's thoughts create this poetic tapestry."
• "I like being able to talk with others about this place - central Ohio. I like it that others care about plants, trees, birds and land forms, that I also see and am getting to know." -- Meg Freeling
• "I like the stories of how others live or lived and the ways they regarded the earth. Plus the sense of age and changes in our time on this planet. The concept that the Earth belongs to itself and not to us." -- Marie
• "I really enjoy the substantial conversations. Sharing our feelings of responsibility for this beautiful earth (or even just Ohio), being exposed to the never ending knowledge helps me become even more connected to this sacred space."

Voluntary Simplicity

This course explores the personal and environmental benefits of simplicity. It seeks to understand the meaning of voluntary simplicity, and to consider how life might be enriched through the practice of simplicity. What are the material and psychological distractions that prevent us from caring for the earth?

Comments of current participants:

• "The class provided a unique opportunity for the sharing among a diverse group of individuals on a continuum of living simply. We learned from each other and from the many excellent articles in the book. The group process provides support, encouragement, new ideas, and hope. A wonderful experience!" -- Susan McGarvey
• "Interesting. I learned a lot of new thoughts - gentle reminders of a consciousness that I had forgotten (one of being kind to the environment)...and reminder again, that my heart and soul are pulled to a simple life."
• "All the readings were a good spring board to focus in on topics that the group was specifically interested in."
• "The most enjoyable part of the Simply Living course was the opportunity to develop a new community of like-minded people, from a variety of backgrounds, who have become friends. I can think of at least 5 ideas that were discussed during this course that I have implemented into my life style. I hope to continue my friendship with all the people in this group. I heard several members of our community voice the same opinion about staying connected with each other." -- Cecilia von Holck
• "This group is wonderful. I have grown to friendship with everyone. I am afraid that it is far too short. There is more to share and hopefully we will all stay in contact. Voluntary Simplicity is so necessary to popularize. How can we help the process?" -- Jack Burdette

Deep Ecology and Related Topics

Deep ecology describes an approach by which an individual looks deeply at his or her relationship with the earth and responsibility for it. Participants discuss how personal values affect the way they view and treat the earth. Topics include the Gaia Hypothesis, Spirituality and the Earth, Native American wisdom, and Ecopsychology.

Comments from current participants:

• "Even though I didn't always feel like going at the end of a workday on Thur., after class I was glad I came. I'm not sure which of these statements are true -- ' I'm not the only sane person in the world' or ' I'm not the only crazy person in the world.' -- but one of them must be."
• "It has been good to finally read articles by authors whose works I have been wanting to read about for years, and to be able to share these writings with others. I have been inspired by others and by the authors. I look forward to taking other classes."
• "The different interactions and perspectives were very valuable and educational. It exceeded my expectations. The openings each week were truly inspirational. I look forward to my next course." -- Michael Hall
• "I have gotten to know a very special group of people; am grateful for this opportunity of time and place to share and to speak deeply with one another; and appreciate the resources I've been introduced to in the readings." -- Carol Fisher
• "I really enjoyed the discussion style of the course. It was wonderful to hear everyone's different viewpoints and opinions. The material was also diverse. The diversity caused me to think a great deal about my own ideas and beliefs and in many cases was inspiring." -- Sarah Pierce
• "The readings were interesting and thought provoking, but of far more value were the weekly discussions. I feel more grounded in my values by hearing my opinions and perceptions echoed in my new friends." -- Melinda Rosenberg
• "A wonderful course for anyone who is looking for a more fulfilling relationship with the Earth. Many different ideas and theories are presented to help develop a better understanding of the environment and our relationship with it." -- Liz Hugenberg
• "Very interesting and thought provoking text and a wonderful group of participants. I feel less cynical and more inspired to action. Deep Ecology exceeded my expectations." -- Steve Rosenberg

I want to offer my sincere thanks to everyone who took the time and energy to share their experience in the courses. As these courses draw to a close, I hope all the groups will continue with another course. And if you would like to participate in a course yourself, please contact the Simply Living office at 614/447-0296. For more information on the courses in general go to www.nwei.org.

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