All posts by Rick Simmons

Founding contributor and creator of Natural Earth Striving an Earth Ethic and Earth Research Explorers, a vision that accepts and includes everyone on Earth as stakeholders, stewards, explorers, researchers, creators, pattern recognizers, ground truthers, innovators, hypothesis generators, etc. Suppose you look at these two entities and consider them as a cycle. In that case, it gets everyone contributing towards a more continuous adaptive striving for desired future conditions on planet Earth from a broad scale to a fine scale. This leads us to a more holistic positive energy reality for the health of everyone, everything, everywhere on Earth. The vision includes a loving, caring, sharing, giving, forgiving, genuine kindness striving to bring about conditions of comfort, joy, love, hope, faith, and sustainable striving happiness foundation for everyone on Earth, transitioning most laws, rules, regulations, policies, to holistic prescriptive advice.

Holistic Harmony

Let Heaven and nature sing with holistic Harmony.   A cohesive and unified populous is necessary for transitioning to a more desired future condition. This similarity condition must occur everywhere on earth.  Only then can we let our unique diversity shine.

We stand at a pivotal juncture, presented with the opportunity to forge a future defined by profound peace and collective unified and uniquely diverse prosperity. Central to realizing this elevated global condition is the cultivation of a truly holistic harmony—one that resonates not only within the human spirit and across our societies, but also with the intricate natural world that sustains us all.

The journey towards this desired future fundamentally necessitates the emergence of a deeply cohesive and unified global populace. This isn’t merely about superficial agreement, but about establishing a universal bedrock of shared values, mutual respect, and a collective purpose that transcends geographical and cultural boundaries. When humanity operates from this foundational understanding—this pervasive sense of interconnectedness committed to the well-being of all and the responsible stewardship of our planet—then, and only then, can the truly magnificent tapestry of our unique global diversity genuinely shine forth.

It is within this framework of fundamental unity that our varied perspectives, innovations, and rich cultural expressions can be celebrated without division, contributing vibrantly to a future that is equitable, sustainable, and prosperous for every living being on Earth.

Interwoven problems

The fabric of our society is increasingly strained by a confluence of grave issues that demand our collective attention. We witness the insidious networks of human trafficking, the pervasive shadow of drug trafficking fueling organized crime, and the horrific spectacle of sex trafficking and mass shootings that shatter communities. These acts of explicit violence and exploitation highlight a stark breakdown in societal safety and fundamental human dignity, often exacerbated by the forgotten struggles of the obscure wars and the chilling silence where “dead men tell no tales.”

Simultaneously, a profound crisis of well-being manifests in myriad forms. The lure of escapism leads many down paths of excessive drinking, often beginning innocuously with drinking games or the embrace of substances like marijuana, hashish, magic mushrooms, opium, heroin, and cocaine. These choices, coupled with an alarming rise in promiscuous behavior and widespread access to pornography, speak to a deeper search for connection or oblivion. Furthermore, the silent battles against eating disorders such as anorexia and obesity, alongside the grim realities of widespread cancer, diabetes, and the tragic increase in suicides, underscore the profound toll on individual health and mental fortitude.

Beneath these visible symptoms lie systemic challenges: the oppressive grip of some controlling domination, the relentless pressure of excess competition, and the pervasive influence of readily available excessive alcohol and illicit drugs. These elements combine to create a landscape where genuine human connection is often replaced by fleeting gratification or profound despair. As we navigate these complex currents, reminiscent of an era yearning for a different kind of holistic freedom, we must confront these realities with clarity and resolve problems where they exist, as many are interwoven together.

Richard Thomas Simmons

War, conflict, or competition

It is becoming increasingly apparent that our society, both domestically and globally, finds itself embroiled in a profound struggle – whether this is a state of undeclared conflict or merely an unprecedented level of competition is a question that merits deep reflection.

A concerning trend emerging from this struggle is our increasing reliance on what could be termed a ‘medicalized economy.’ This refers to the pervasive presence of pharmaceutical interventions within our society, where drugs, both illicit and prescribed, are not merely symptoms but often contributors to a wider array of maladies. We observe a distressing prevalence of addiction, rising rates of chronic diseases like diabetes and cancer, and an alarming increase in suicides. This cultural landscape, where individuals are systematically disempowered and marginalized by these very issues, paints a picture of a society losing its collective vitality – a phenomenon one might provocatively describe as a ‘grateful dead’ state, where potential and purpose are prematurely extinguished.

The prevalence of excessive alcohol consumption, for instance, particularly its early onset in adolescence, before or during high school, is equally disturbing. The sheer volume of health crises directly attributable to alcohol suggests a systemic issue, perhaps even an unintended consequence of relentless societal pressures or competitive dynamics. It raises questions about the environments we cultivate for our youth and the coping mechanisms they are implicitly encouraged to adopt.

One cannot help but ponder if this pervasive competition itself is a driving force behind these maladies. When individuals succumb to illness or addiction, they often find themselves sidelined from career progression and integrated into the extensive medical and therapeutic support systems. This raises a challenging query: Are we, inadvertently, creating a cycle where widespread illness and dependence become economically self-perpetuating? Beyond substance abuse, we see the corrosive effects of other societal excesses – from unhealthy consumption patterns to the proliferation of pornography. It is worth contemplating the extent to which these factors contribute to broader social ills, including crime rates and, tragically, even instances of extreme violence.

Reflecting on my own formative years, the presence of various substances – from alcohol and marijuana to more potent illicit drugs – was disturbingly common. This early exposure to intoxicating substances not only fueled rumor and speculation but, more significantly, foreshadowed a loss of societal standing. The adage “dead men tell no tales” takes on a grim metaphorical resonance here: once an individual is deeply entangled in cycles of addiction or destructive behavior, their credibility diminishes, their voice is discounted, and their very participation in civic and professional life is severely compromised. They are, in essence, rendered ‘grateful dead’ – stripped of their prospects, their legal standing, and their ability to contribute meaningfully to society.

This begs profound questions about the nature of our societal framework. Are we confronting a deliberate societal affliction, or are these merely the unintended, complex consequences of systemic pressures and human vulnerabilities? To what extent do intelligence, or perhaps a collective ignorance of these underlying dynamics, play a role in perpetuating these cycles? These are not simple inquiries, but urgent calls for deeper understanding and collective introspection. Are we at war with ourselves, or is it some foreign entity?   I have previously proposed the hypothesis that we are at war.   Either that or it’s extreme competition to keep the economy in the hands of those that “matter more” in a self-defined way.

Building up “soil” instead of “erosion”

Our societal landscape, much like the physical earth, is susceptible to an insidious force: pervasive negative energy. It functions not merely as an irritant, but as an erosive agent, systematically washing away the rich, fertile topsoil of positive human potential and environmental well-being. This constant attrition mirrors the barrenness left by relentless rain, leaving behind a depleted ecosystem, both within the individual spirit and across our shared world. The consequences are profound: a cycle of impoverishment where the absence of nurturing ‘soil’ prevents growth, leading to a self-reinforcing downward spiral that amplifies discord and disheartenment.

However, this trajectory is not an immutable fate. We possess the collective capacity to reverse this erosion. The key lies in deliberately cultivating a generative foundation, a self-sustaining cycle where positive energy isn’t just present, but actively replenished and amplified. Imagine an environment where every interaction enriches this ‘soil,’ a ground fertilized by genuine love, profound care, open sharing, selfless giving, profound forgiveness, and unwavering kindness. From such fertile ground, conditions of true comfort, expansive joy, deep connection, enduring hope, authentic unity, equitable opportunity, steadfast faith, and a resilient, sustainable, evolving happiness can naturally emerge and flourish.

This regenerative framework allows for a continuous accumulation of ‘soil,’ steadily building resilience not only within each person but also across our collective landscapes. A pivotal first step in this transformation involves fostering environments where individuals are empowered to process and release accumulated negative energy, replacing it with constructive self-awareness, positive energy, and healing. This isn’t just about individual therapy, but about creating societal structures and community spaces that facilitate introspection, reconciliation, and growth. When individuals are supported in their journey to shed old burdens and cultivate inner strength, they shift from a reactive, depleting state to a proactive, regenerative one.

As personal needs are holistically addressed and inner landscapes become fertile, communities and the broader environment will inevitably reflect this renewed vitality. This means a world where positive energy becomes the default, building robust ‘soil’ everywhere. Such richness would enable unparalleled innovation and creativity, allowing us to cultivate not just material sustenance but also intellectual and spiritual abundance. This deep foundation also forms the bedrock for a truly unique and thriving diversity, where everyone’s distinct contributions are not only valued but are essential to the vibrancy of the whole.

I envision a world where the very surface of our planet serves as a testament to this profound regeneration. A world where every single inhabitant is holistically sustained, not merely surviving, but truly flourishing within a rich tapestry of interconnected life.

Sincerely,

Richard Thomas Simmons

Restoration inspiration inclusion, incentives and restitution goals and objectives index

Restitution goals and objectives (as chosen by each person) may include regaining holistic, inspirational inclusion for organizations such as Airbnb, Amazon, Pods, Rideshare, Facebook, Lyft, or Uber, etc., once everyone has completed confessions, reconciliations, or counseling.

We are establishing a restorative inclusion program to reintegrate individuals into essential organizations and digital platforms. This initiative involves a structured counseling and reconciliation process that helps participants achieve the goals necessary for re-engagement. Our proposed restoration plans for services, including Airbnb, Amazon, Facebook, and various rideshare options, are detailed.  Once people have completed confessions, reconciliations, and counseling, they may regain admission to these organizations by meeting restitution goals. Restitution or restoration ideas are only limited by human imagination.    Some index ideas are found in Restitution goals and objectives (Figure 1).

Figure 1: An example of a person’s restoration goals and objectives showing scores and contribution significance.  The minimum score is 50 to be reintegrated into the inspiration and inclusion incentives of choice.  As shown, this person scored 68%, qualifying for the inspirational inclusion incentives.

Reactionary healthcare to holistic healthcare everywhere

Dear Everyone,

I wanted to share some reflections on an approach to well-being that I believe holds immense potential for our collective health: holistic healthcare.

Fundamentally, holistic healthcare represents a paradigm shift from merely treating illness once it arises to actively cultivating and sustaining robust health across all facets of an individual’s life. It meticulously considers the intricate interplay between one’s physical body, mental state, emotional well-being, spiritual harmony, and even environmental factors. The core philosophy is to nurture an individual’s inherent capacity for health, thereby addressing potential imbalances and vulnerabilities long before they manifest as acute conditions.

This proactive, integrated methodology stands in significant contrast to what is often termed ‘reactionary healthcare.’ While indispensable for acute emergencies and managing existing diseases, the reactive model primarily focuses on intervention *after* symptoms appear. It often excels at crisis management but can sometimes overlook the underlying lifestyle factors or systemic imbalances that contributed to the illness in the first place.

By adopting a holistic lens, we shift our focus from symptom suppression to root cause identification and comprehensive prevention. This involves empowering individuals with tools for balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, effective stress management, adequate rest, and fostering meaningful social connections. It’s about building a strong, resilient foundation for health that naturally diminishes the frequency and severity of needing intensive, remedial medical interventions.

I am convinced that embracing a more holistically integrated approach to health is not merely an alternative path, but rather a more sustainable, empowering, and ultimately superior strategy for achieving genuine, long-term well-being and a higher quality of life for everyone.

Sincerely,

Richard Thomas Simmons

True costs and the new Natural Earth Striving Earth Ethic

I’ve been reflecting deeply on the insights presented by Rachel Carson, particularly her powerful observation that the genuine ecological costs of our modern industrial etc. endeavors are rarely, if ever, fully integrated into our economic calculations. This oversight creates a profound disparity, where the burden of environmental degradation, resource depletion, and biodiversity loss is consistently externalized, leaving future generations and the planet itself to bear the true costs..

This realization prompts a critical question: instead of endlessly striving to quantify and mitigate the extensive environmental impacts stemming from our current way of life, wouldn’t it be a more sustainable and ultimately more enlightened path to fundamentally reorient our societies towards principles that are intrinsically aligned with the Earth’s natural systems? Imagine a world where our progress is defined not just by economic growth, but by our harmonious relationship with the natural world – a world where a ‘natural earth striving’ ethos guides our innovation, policy, and daily actions.

For nature is not merely a resource to be exploited or an externality to be managed. It is a breathtaking tapestry of interconnected life, a source of unparalleled wonder, and indeed, possesses a divine quality that inspires reverence and demands our profound stewardship. Our long-term well-being, both individually and collectively, is inextricably linked to our recognition and protection of this fundamental truth.

Using holistic inspirational Inclusion incentives with organizations like Airbnb, Amazon etc.

Dear Everyone,  

I am writing to share a concept I’ve been creating regarding the evolution of societal and organizational inspirational incentives, inclusion, and reintegration pathways. My premise is that the very fabric of our modern digital economy offers compelling, often overlooked, mechanisms for fostering positive behavioral change and community inspirational inclusion.  Simply by being included or not offers a tremendous advantage for all of us in society as those not ready to participate get the help they need first.    In fact, inclusion becomes the inspirational incentive choice of the future for everyone on Earth.

Consider the profound role that platforms like Airbnb, Amazon, and even various social and professional networks play in our daily lives.  Imagine all the potential inspirational incentive organizations beyond those already mentioned that could be involved as well. They represent not just convenience, but also access to economic opportunities, social connections, and a sense of belonging within the contemporary world. I believe the ability to participate in or be excluded from these widely utilized systems can serve as an extraordinarily powerful, ‘inspirational’ incentive to be a part of holistic society and communities. 

Imagine a framework where, following a period of reflection, reconciliation, or therapeutic engagement, individuals could actively work towards regaining or earning their place within these digital ecosystems or simply being able to use the service or not. This isn’t merely about access; it’s about demonstrating accountability and commitment to community standards and personal growth. The profound discomfort and practical disadvantages of being disengaged from these essential services could motivate individuals to earnestly engage in processes like counseling, restorative justice initiatives, or dedicated community service to gain readmittance.

Conversely, for those currently outside this sphere of inclusion, all is certainly not lost. Structured pathways, such as engaging in meaningful restitution, participating actively in public benefit organizations, or demonstrating sustained commitment to self-improvement, could serve as tangible steps to progressively re-earn the privilege of full societal and economic participation.

This concept seeks to harness the tremendous inspirational benefits of our tech-driven world and beyond to create innovative holistic inspirational inclusion avenues for rehabilitation, fostering responsibility, and ultimately, building a more inclusive and accountable society. I am eager to explore these ideas further because it could be the end of all crime and all other social ills as well.  Consequently, inspirational unity on Earth is not far off if we initiate this concept as soon as possible.

Sincerely,

Richard Thomas Simmons

Holistic in context competition

It is increasingly evident that the prevailing ethos of relentless competition, while sometimes spurring innovation, is also leading us down a perilous path. This unbridled drive for individual or group supremacy often fractures communities, strains vital resources, and significantly hampers our ability to address the complex, interconnected challenges facing humanity and our planet.  Extreme out-of-context competition also harms people’s health and our natural environment.

Instead of this isolating pursuit, we must urgently cultivate a robust foundation of genuine collaboration. This means actively seeking common ground, fostering mutual understanding, and prioritizing shared goals above narrow out-of-context interests. Through collective effort and collaborative frameworks, we can unlock sustainable solutions, build resilient societies, and ensure equitable progress for everyone.  Only then can we have a holistic, well-motivated, in-context competition as a unique diversity pyramid.

The stark reality is that without a fundamental shift towards this collaborative paradigm, the escalating consequences of extreme competition – from environmental degradation to societal instability – pose an existential threat to our planet’s social, organizational, and ecological ecosystems and, ultimately, to our very future. It’s time to recognize that our survival and holistic, in-context prosperity are inextricably linked to our capacity to work together toward the collaboration foundation and the competition pyramid.

Holistic in context wealth


The aspiration to restore Earth’s economy might is undoubtedly a decisive and widely shared goal. In fact, we have heard the MAGA movement and its leader talk only about making America wealthy again.   Our needs are more complex than that.  However, it is imperative that we critically examine the potential broader implications of such a singular mono-culture focus. There is a legitimate concern that an approach prioritizing only financial metrics, without adequately investing in nature, public health, accessible healthcare, and robust social safety nets, could inadvertently lead to an overburdened medical infrastructure and a decline in overall societal well-being especially in cumulative totality planetary health, True prosperity in my view, must encompass not just economic growth, but must be put in context with the fundamental health and resilience of everyone, everything everywhere on Earth to address these interconnected issues and risks creating a society that is financially strong and wealthy, but physically and emotionally vulnerable.  However, if we put investment needs knowledge to work by prioritizing our relative priorities first, we can achieve holistic wealth as well. Holistic wealth is like sustainability.  We must prioritize what makes us holistically happy in a holistically healthy, cumulative, Earth context, not letting the commons be impacted beyond their ability to provide for our well-being, including our life-support systems, from local to global.   I’ve had an idea to put everything in a geographic context so people can invest in various areas of the planet that need help.   In other words, they can view their own wealth in the context of environmental wealth.   I see nothing wrong with success if our prioritized needs for similarity are met. This includes people and the natural environment, everything everywhere on earth.   We should try to transition beyond all forms of pollution as well. We need natural earth striving, natural humanity striving, natural healthy living striving, natural spirituality striving, Earth Ethic.    Areas with a desirable Earth ethic index will receive Ecological Equilibrium Compensation benefits, especially if they are contributing holistic, well-intentioned, positive energy.    Maybe we all should be Earth Research explorers, as stakeholders and stewards, as a shared foundation condition.   It would be a fun, joyful way to take care of everyone, everything, everywhere on earth, while at the same time achieving a new natural and holistic prosperity in context with the needs on earth.   Today’s investments don’t include context or the impacts they have on externalities.   It would be a great idea to transition these impacts into holistic, well-meaning, well-motivated, positive energy in all ways.   The important thing is to strive continuously in an adaptive way.  If we are all taking care of our planet and our people, everything, everywhere on earth, we get a tremendous amount of satisfaction and joy from that alone.   Those who contribute the most holistic energy may be the ones who benefit the most from our holistic success and knowledge.   I envision our planet Earth in context with everyone, everything, and everywhere on Earth. Ecological niche nature, organizations, or corporations may want to invest profits in our highest relative priorities through investments and may be rewarded by investment from the people in a cycle. It’s the same concept that I learned in school about Eco Eco. They have the same root word. It is about the economy and Ecology working together on Earth, but with relative priority given to locality, community, eco-region, and Earth itself.    We must put our planet’s people to work again, doing what they love, focusing on our priorities.   Earth is our provider and our home.  It is about each of us and all of us, everyone, everything, everywhere on Earth.   Nobody does it better than each of us and all of us together.   In fact, one idea called the Earth Unidiversity Research Explorers Cycle, with a location-enabled integrated device, puts most of it together.