I’ve known her all my life. For a time in the early years, I looked at her with eyes full of wonder. And then I didn’t.

Moving through childhood, my focus shifted to all the joys and pains of my own development. I became so wrapped up in my own self that I seldom noticed her presence. I was generally unaware of her unless it was to complain about how she’d somehow unintentionally interrupted my personal agenda.

Regretfully, I confess my overall failure to recognize her greatness—her creativity, her wisdom, and her beauty. Seldom did I acknowledge the incredible generosity she offered—how she gave and gave of herself, asking nothing in return. And I—I never hesitated to take advantage of her offerings. Although I sometimes gave a nod of appreciation, most of it was lip service without serious thought of the extraordinary value of her gifts.

Fortunately, with age I gained some maturity and compassion.

I started observing her more often through my childhood eyes. And as I did, I developed a deep sense of appreciation and gratitude. I relived memories of wonderful times we’d shared. I recalled the many times she’d lifted me out of a slump or overwhelmed me with awe just by her very presence. She’s always had that special way about her.

And, it wasn’t just for me. She has always been there for everyone she’s encountered.

The years have passed so quickly, and now there’s no denying the toll they’ve taken on her. She is not well. It weighs heavy on my heart as I long to support and comfort her.

I couldn’t begin to repay her for what she’s given me, but seriously, what can I do? I am no doctor. In fact, I’m no expert in any field.

My thoughts turn to the teachings of spiritual leaders, and I discover the answer in a single word: love.

In loving her, I want to care for her as much as I would care for myself. I want to be connected to her as if we were one, and I believe wholeheartedly that that is what we are—one with each other.

For in closely examining myself, I see how the threads of my being are interwoven with the threads of all persons and elements of the world. One cannot thrive or even survive without the support of the others.

Every one of us—we are all in this together. Truly, we are all one.

Loving self. Loving others as much as self. Loving all of life. It is the best way and, quite frankly, the only way to be of any help.

I love you, Mother Earth. I want you to heal, and so I commit to honoring you as best I can in all my actions. As I endeavor to cherish you, I will also try to love and care for others too. I will try to treat them as I would want to be treated, to protect and care for them as I would care for myself.

May we all come together in love to heal each other and to heal our world.

P.S. As I sat writing this piece, my mind kept going to the children’s book, The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein. If you haven’t read it, please do—it’s awesome!