Yes, we do under estimate the "intelligence" of animals and even trees. Trees don't move so we assume they lack intelligence. "Intelligence" is defined according to human terms and because basically we have no idea of how animals or trees communicate with each other and really have not yet found a way of truly understanding the depth of their "intelligence" we assume we are the "most intelligent and most evolved species" on this planet.

This has not sat right with me for quite a while.

All our knowledge is biased towards humans, even when we study other creatures. So, we really don't see a balanced view of other life forms and just how "intelligent" they may actually be. We generally tend...

Yes, we do under estimate the "intelligence" of animals and even trees. Trees don't move so we assume they lack intelligence. "Intelligence" is defined according to human terms and because basically we have no idea of how animals or trees communicate with each other and really have not yet found a way of truly understanding the depth of their "intelligence" we assume we are the "most intelligent and most evolved species" on this planet.

This has not sat right with me for quite a while.

All our knowledge is biased towards humans, even when we study other creatures. So, we really don't see a balanced view of other life forms and just how "intelligent" they may actually be. We generally tend to be blind to the subtle "gifts" they give.

It has much to do with an over-riding attitude that humans are "superior" and human well-being must come before all other creatures and habitat on this planet.

Humans ideas of economic security is one of the most destructive aspects of habitat and wildlife. I don't particularly like the uncertainty of these times - yet, I am aware that change is very necessary - change that embraces habitat and other species, & life forms that share this planet with us.

Another wondering - to date - most of our attitudes towards this earth are "what can I gain from this earth". What if we were to change this to, "what can I give and add to this earth to make it better than when I found it."

I am inspired by these videos:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RoQZcTN3pEQ

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_diLzkIp-4U

Currently, our local community is bracing to face court action against a "developer" (who I had no idea has a similar power over council to what a mafia would). I am surprised at how, people who have him as a client, "fear" taking a stand against...

Another wondering - to date - most of our attitudes towards this earth are "what can I gain from this earth". What if we were to change this to, "what can I give and add to this earth to make it better than when I found it."

I am inspired by these videos:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RoQZcTN3pEQ

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_diLzkIp-4U

Currently, our local community is bracing to face court action against a "developer" (who I had no idea has a similar power over council to what a mafia would). I am surprised at how, people who have him as a client, "fear" taking a stand against the development. (I understand their fear also).

And yet, I can' help wondering, is it worth selling my soul for a few extra bucks. For me, personally, it isn't. I want to leave this planet "feeling" like I have really followed my "pure heart" whatever the outcome.