Outlook After the 55th Climate Reality Leadership Training

Reflections on Wealth in the Time of Climate Emergency

After attending the 55th Climate Reality Leadership Training this past weekend (April 12-14th, 2024), I’ve come to a powerful realization about how we measure wealth in the age of the Climate Emergency. It’s a perspective shift that has truly resonated with me.

In the face of the Climate Emergency, the true measure of wealth is no longer defined by material possessions or financial status. Instead, it is the depth of our compassion, empathy, and moral values that truly define our wealth. It is about how deeply we care for the well-being and happiness of others, not how we judge or try to manipulate our way to power and wealth.

Wealth is no longer about the size of our mansions, the balance in our bank accounts, or the political or religious influence we wield. True wealth lies in our ability to be tolerant, cooperative, and empathetic. It is about our natural state of being, or our willingness to transform and cultivate these essential qualities.

The Climate Emergency has a sobering reality check for us all. It has the power to take away our material possessions – our cars, our homes, our financial wealth. This realization should humble us and shift our priorities. We can no longer afford to be trapped in harmful habits and behaviors that fuel the Climate Emergency, just as we would struggle to quit a sugar addiction.

Instead, we must create new, sustainable habits – driving less, consuming less meat, and focusing on the collective well-being rather than individual gain. The Climate Reality Training has reinforced the importance of this shift in mindset and action.

While my overall experience at the training was not entirely positive, it has been a transformative one. It has allowed me to make new connections, gain a clearer understanding of the challenges we face, and ignite a stronger desire to fight for a habitable, sustainable planet for future generations.

Wealth is no longer about “me” versus “you.” It is about “us” – supporting and encouraging each other as we navigate this shared Climate Emergency. It is a call to action, a reminder that our true wealth lies in our ability to come together, to show compassion, and to work towards a better future for all.

Tito