“Is it Possible to Live Differently “

...is the title of an action document recently published by the Diocesan Environment Group, Ernest and I as members of this group have been involved in producing the document and now in publishing it. It’ s a response to climate change and other ecological threats. It challenges churches and individuals to reduce our carbon footprint, and In live greener lifestyles; turn down the thermostat, improve insulation, reuse and recycle, cut down on car journeys, get the bike cut, change the light bulbs of course. This short publication is packed full of practical ideas and pointers to a wide range of useful resources and information. You can find it yourself at:
www.Chelmsford.anglican.org/environment

 
Many of the lifestyle changes suggested might seem costly or burdensome. You’ve got to want to do it! You’ve got to be motivated. For me the motives are strong: it’s about caring for God’ s good creation and caring about the impact of climate change on the poorest people of the earth - other people paying the price of our consumerist society. It’s a justice issue. Because I love this beautiful planet, and because I have a strong sense of justice, I’ m motivated to do things which will cost me something - money, time or effort. So occasionally now I walk into Braintree and catch a bus or train, rather than simply jump in the car. I put on an extra jumper rather than turn the heating up.

 
2012 begins and it’s time for these New Year’s Resolutions. Again! Are you like me, and make the same resolutions year after year, and never quite keep them (lose weight, get fit...). Changing our life style, our habits, is always difficult. You’ve got to be motivated! We’ve got a family wedding this year, so perhaps that really does motivate me to lose a flaw l. It’s all about motivation - and orientation. What do I care about? What’s really important to me? What are my values - what do I value? What are my priorities?

As you begin the New Year, I hope you can make time to think about these questions. And good luck with your Resolutions.

And of course, I wish you all a happy, prosperous and peaceful New Year.