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.

Unification, people scoping, and pure participatory democracy

There’s too much protesting in our world and not enough proactive, holistic contribution from people. People need to feel included, accepted, relatively prioritized, and contributing to feel a sense of inclusion, acceptance, and unity. Therefore, politics needs to adapt to changing conditions.  People need to be part of the process, and what I call pure democracy.  Therefore, we need to elevate what people say and how they feel about things in our world. I also called this concept people scoping, which is something that I learned from the Forest Service called public scoping. I removed the borders and boundaries, calling for a unified concept of people.  We need to stop fighting and turn everything into a research exploration project for everybody on Earth. Everything on earth, everywhere on Earth.   We need more Analytic assessment and holistic planning, and people need to be involved.   Everyone has their own interests, experience, expertise, and life’s path to contribute to our similarities and our unique diversity.

Our world often appears characterized by fragmented discourse and reactive responses, rather than unified, proactive contributions toward shared progress toward a desired future condition. It has become increasingly clear that for humanity to thrive, we must address a fundamental need: the deep-seated desire for every individual to feel included, accepted, relatively prioritized, and empowered to contribute meaningfully, thereby fostering a genuine sense of collective purpose and unity.

This imperative demands a profound evolution in our governance and political systems. Traditional models are struggling to adapt to rapidly changing global conditions. We must transition towards a more authentic, participatory democracy – one where the collective wisdom, experiences, and sentiments of the populace are not merely acknowledged, but actively and systematically integrated into strategic planning. This isn’t just about hearing voices; it’s about building processes where people are truly integral to decision-making.

Inspired by robust public engagement methodologies, such as the “public scoping” processes utilized by organizations like the Forest Service, I propose we develop a “Global Citizen Foresight Initiative.” This framework would aim to transcend artificial geographical, ideological, and social boundaries, fostering a unified conceptualization of humanity. It’s about dismantling the barriers that divide us and recognizing our shared stake in the planet’s future.

Imagine if we redirected our collective energy from adversarial struggles towards a collaborative research and exploration project for all of humanity. Instead of perpetual conflict, every global challenge could become an opportunity for collective inquiry, innovation, and solution-building, involving every corner of the earth. This necessitates a heightened commitment to rigorous analysis, comprehensive, holistic planning, and, crucially, sustained public engagement. Imagine the inspirational inclusion incentive this would create.

The unparalleled strength of our species lies in its incredible diversity. Every individual possesses a unique blend of interests, invaluable life experience, specialized expertise, and a distinct personal journey. These elements are not just individual assets; they are the essential, synergistic components required to construct truly inclusive, sustainable, and equitable solutions that honor both our fundamental similarities and our magnificent diversity.

Richard Thomas Simmons

Nature motion energy generation integration and hybrid/electric cars

Dear everyone, 

Motion Energy generation started out with the concept of storing excess  energy and retrieving it when it’s needed.  I call it motion energy generation because I initially came up with the concept of it related to an automobile, but it can be used in other applications like powerlines and periods of low demand and high demand.  Initially, I thought that all motion in the car can be converted into electricity and stored in a battery or capacitor Until it’s needed again.  I came up with this concept while driving the roads in Vermont where they’re very hilly leading to ups and downs all the time. I also coasted for nearly 6 miles when I ran out of gas on I 89.   Motion can be taken off of the motor or off the axles and what is called regenerative breaking now.   I believe the idea that I came up with in Vermont led to hybrid cars and contributed to a lot of Tesla‘s ideas.  I’ve also had a lot of imaginative exploration about how to generate electricity with axles driveshaft and cantilevers.  I had the idea of storing energy from a moving train when the energy was not needed and retrieving it when it was high in demand. The goal was perpetual energy generation, but I’m not sure if it’s achievable or not.  Hybrid cars can be anything from electric, hydrogen, conventional gasoline, and any other fuel. But the goal is to minimize pollution.  I did not come up with the name hybrid, but I believe it was taken from my idea.

I am writing to share a foundational concept I’ve extensively explored, which I refer to as “Motion Energy Generation.” This principle is centered on the innovative capture and storage of kinetic energy when it is in excess or otherwise unutilized, followed by its strategic retrieval and deployment precisely when demand dictates.

My initial inspiration for this concept originated from observations made during frequent drives through the undulating topography of Vermont. The constant cycles of acceleration and deceleration, the effort expended in uphill climbs invariably followed by downhill descents, crystallized the understanding that a substantial amount of kinetic energy within an automobile is routinely dissipated. I began envisioning a sophisticated system where virtually all motion inherent to a vehicle could be efficiently converted into electrical energy, stored in advanced battery or capacitor banks, and then seamlessly reintegrated into the power cycle as required. This realization was vividly underscored by a memorable instance on I-89 where, having run out of fuel, I managed to coast for nearly six miles—a compelling demonstration of latent kinetic energy awaiting intelligent harnessing.

While initially conceived through the lens of automotive engineering, environmental technology, and natural cycles focusing on harvesting energy directly from the motor, transmission, driveshafts, and axles—a precursor to what is now widely known as regenerative braking—I quickly recognized the broader applicability of this core principle. Imagine extending this concept to large-scale infrastructure, such as national power grids, where surplus kinetic energy from sources like moving trains could be captured during periods of low demand and then discharged to augment supply during peak consumption. My imaginative explorations have also delved into novel methods of electricity generation utilizing mechanical components such as axles, driveshafts, and cantilevers, aiming to maximize energy capture from diverse mechanical movements.  Multiplying the length of shafts with cantilevers may lead to more energy generated and stored. 

It has been particularly fascinating to observe the rapid advancements in modern automotive technology, specifically the evolution of hybrid vehicles and the groundbreaking innovations introduced by companies like Tesla. I see strong conceptual parallels between these developments and the principles of motion energy capture and reuse that I first articulated. While I did not originate the term “hybrid,” I believe the underlying philosophy—combining various power sources for enhanced efficiency and reduced environmental footprint—resonates deeply with the foundational ideas I explored. The ultimate aspiration behind this framework is the comprehensive optimization of energy utilization, driving us closer to a future of sustained, environmentally responsible power generation and significant pollution reduction across diverse applications.  

I welcome the opportunity to discuss these concepts more with you.  

Sincerely,

Richard Thomas Simmons

Natural harmony and natural earth striving earth ethic

Achieving a state of natural harmony necessitates a profound appreciation for the intricate web of ecological and geographical interdependencies that define our planet. It compels us to carefully discern, for any given landscape or region, the most suitable and appropriate courses of action—or indeed, inaction—to ensure the enduring health and balance of our environment.

Our ultimate objective in this pursuit is to cultivate holistic ecological sustainability. This vision extends beyond mere environmental preservation to thoughtfully integrate the flourishing of natural systems with the well-being and health of human populations. Furthermore, this endeavor often touches upon deeper spiritual and ethical dimensions, acknowledging a profound reverence for creation and the divine, recognizing humanity’s place within a grander design.

In all our efforts to steward the Earth, it is imperative that we proceed with a sense of humility and profound respect. We must consciously refrain from assuming a role akin to ‘playing God,’ instead acknowledging the limits of our understanding and the delicate, inherent wisdom of the natural world and its processes.

Would natural earth striving be a suitable Earth ethic?

Natural humanity striving?

Natural healthy living striving?

Natural spirituality striving?

The We-Me location enabled integrated device.

When everyone has a We-Me Location-enabled, integrated device, we can conduct a census of everyone on Earth if needed. Therefore, we could get the cumulative totality close to the reality of any problem on Earth.   Additionally, people can use the tool as a people-scoping device to gather opinions, ideas, and creative input. This includes passive and active scientific research, including exploration and ground truthing. Essentially, it turns the world into a pure democracy, but most likely, it’ll be more fine-scale and more eco-regional most of the time.

Imagine a future where every individual possesses a universally adopted, integrated personal device, equipped with advanced location and data-sharing capabilities. This ubiquitous connectivity would enable an unprecedented level of planetary information aggregation. Such a foundational infrastructure would allow us to instantaneously gather comprehensive, real-time insights into any challenge facing humanity, from resource distribution and population dynamics to the nuances of public health crises. This ‘cumulative totality reality’ would provide an understanding of planetary issues previously unattainable, empowering proactive and data-driven responses.

Beyond mere data collection, this system would serve as an unparalleled platform for collective intelligence. Individuals could actively participate, contributing opinions, innovative ideas, and creative solutions to complex issues, thereby fostering a truly collaborative problem-solving environment on a planetary scale. This pervasive connectivity has the potential to fundamentally reshape governance, moving toward a more direct and participatory ‘pure democracy’ in which collective will can be expressed and acted upon with remarkable efficiency.

However, while the planetary implications are undoubtedly profound, its most frequent and perhaps most impactful applications would likely manifest at a more granular, ‘fine-scale’ and ‘eco-regional’ level. This would empower local communities and regional authorities with real-time data for environmental stewardship, community planning, hyper-localized resource management, and immediate social feedback, optimizing responses to specific, localized needs. The use of this device is limited only by our collective imagination and is infinite. Consider our ability to prioritize needs, plan, and organize activities adaptively at scales ranging from fine to broad.

Reallocating negative energy to holistic positive energy

War, terrorism, drug wars, crimes, gangs, violence, etc., are tremendous negative energy waste of resources in our world.   Trillions of dollars are spent on these downward-spiral feedback loops.    Imagine how much is spent across all these sectors.  How much is spent on justice systems, court systems, police, military, ICE, and all other enforcement mechanisms around the world?  Imagine if we took all of the resources in the reactionary and put them towards the holistic preventative.  I’m not suggesting we remove essential emergency responders, but I do propose shifting significant resources toward our ideal future.   Military law, courts, corrections, and reactive law enforcement are increasingly focused on restorative approaches and comprehensive guidance.  Imagine focusing on more loving, caring, sharing, giving, forgiving, and genuinely kind striving to bring about conditions of comfort, joy, love, hope, unity, equity, and sustainable striving happiness.  If these foundational elements were considered of the utmost importance, we would be able to prevent most of the negative energy, not to mention the tragedies and the lives lost. Imagine how much healthier everyone would be.

As we survey the landscape of planetary challenges, it becomes apparent how much of our collective energy and resources are consumed by a perpetual cycle of reaction and perpetual conflict.   The relentless focus on combating symptoms rather than addressing root causes in areas such as conflict, crime, and social unrest perpetuates a ‘downward spiral feedback loop,’ siphoning trillions of dollars annually from our global economy. Consider the staggering sums allocated to maintaining complex justice systems, extensive court infrastructures, vast police forces, military operations, and myriad other enforcement mechanisms worldwide. This represents an enormous opportunity cost lost on more positive energy endeavors.

Imagine, then, a radical reallocation of these resources. What if the monumental investments currently directed towards reactive measures were instead channeled into a comprehensive, holistic preventative framework? This would mean prioritizing upstream interventions: robust educational systems, accessible, holistic healthcare, mental health services, community development initiatives, conflict resolution programs, creative, contributive empowerment, and sustainable environmental justice systems.  Imagine if these foundations were considered value, energy, and benefits contributions from people first.   Imagine all the effort that is allocated in the current condition.

To be clear, this vision does not advocate for dismantling our essential emergency response and safety nets. Instead, it calls for a profound strategic shift, redirecting substantial funding and focusing on cultivating a more stable, equitable, and resilient planetary society, as well as all associated stakeholders and communities, within our collective ‘desired future conditions.’  This requires a significant amount of needs assessment and relative prioritization.

In this reimagined future, the very institutions we rely on for order and security could evolve significantly. The role of national defense, for instance, could expand beyond traditional military engagements to encompass proactive diplomacy, robust peacekeeping missions, humanitarian aid, restoration university, disaster preparedness, and holistic investment.  Our legal and judicial systems, currently often punitive, could transform into engines of restorative justice and holistic prescription advice. This would involve prioritizing mediation, rehabilitation, victim-offender dialogue, and addressing the underlying socio-economic factors that contribute to criminal behavior, moving away from simple retribution towards genuine restoration. Correctional facilities could serve as centers for education, vocational training, mental health support, hospitals, and reintegration programs, thereby preparing individuals for a productive return to society rather than merely warehousing them. Similarly, law enforcement agencies could pivot from reactive policing to community-centric models. Officers would be empowered as facilitators of peace, working collaboratively with social workers, educators, and mental health professionals to provide ‘holistic prescription advice identifying and resolving community challenges before they escalate into crime, war, and disorder.

Such a paradigm shift would transition the ‘downward spiral feedback loop’ into an upward trajectory of human flourishing. It’s an investment not just in avoiding harm, but in actively building a world where peace, equity, and well-being are the norm, not the exception.

Richard Thomas Simmons

Sustainable striving holistic prevention

Sin, crime, violence holistic prevention starts with nature immersion, culture immersion, natural spirituality, holistic to holy spectrum, community, love, and the Earth Unidiversity Research Explorers Cycle.    

It is increasingly evident that addressing fundamental societal challenges such as discord, unethical behavior, and aggression necessitates a profound shift in our collective understanding and approach. We firmly believe that sustainable holistic prevention originates not from punitive measures, but from a deliberate cultivation of intrinsic human values and a recognition of our deep interconnectedness and foundational principles.  

Our vision centers on an integrative methodology, commencing with **nature immersion** to foster a profound respect for the ecological world and an appreciation for its inherent wisdom as Nature includes people.   This is complemented by meaningful **culture immersion**, designed to broaden perspectives, cultivate empathy, and celebrate the rich diversity of human experience across the planet.  We advocate for a rediscovery of **natural spirituality**, an intrinsic connection to the universe that transcends dogmatic frameworks, inspiring ethical conduct and a deeper sense of purpose.  Holistic, traditional spirituality is included in natural spirituality.

This holistic to holy spectrum paradigm embraces the comprehensive well-being of mind, body, and spirit, recognizing the inherent **sacredness** within all life and reinforcing the vital importance of **community** building and collective responsibility. This includes a traditional spirituality concept called holy.   At its heart lies the transformative power of **love**, viewed as the ultimate catalyst for compassion, collaboration, and universal flourishing.

To actively research, explore, and implement these transformative principles, we are championing **The Earth Unidiversity Research Explorers Cycle**. This pioneering initiative provides a robust framework and a living exploration laboratory for cultivating practices that embody these foundational values, aiming to guide humanity toward a more peaceful, equitable, and sustainable future for all.

Richard Thomas Simmons

Holistically adapting towards a more inclusive desired future condition

I realize patience is important but as far as I’m concerned what I’ve been talking about is a drop everything kind of thing to start the transition.   However, I don’t know everything, and I must understand the complexities of getting people to transition their way of thinking towards more desired future condition.   I realize systems need to be developed, and the investment paradigm needs to change.  Maybe it’s already started!   However, if we’re having problems, transitioning, I suggest ending all war, terrorism, homelessness, mass shootings, and all preventable suffering first.   Then, we need to write a letter to everyone on earth, explaining our collective desired future condition on Earth, based on all of everything known.  We need to be aware that future solutions involve everyone, everything, everywhere on earth and no one does it better than each of us and all of us together as a cycle.   When we all become sustainable, striving stewards and stakeholders , We naturally want to learn all we can learn about the needs of our world( Cumulative totality everyone everything everywhere on earth).   There is so much to do on our planet that everyone can be involved somehow in someway no matter what they know and what their skills are.  Holistic inspirational incentives will continue to allow people to continuously adapt towards desired future conditions, while learning more.Thus, we need to start picking people up on our planet and helping them transition to a more desired future condition.   This unified effort will cohesively bond everyone together with each other, nature, the natural environment, humanity, communities, and families.   When we are unified and purpose, and when we know our objectives based on prescriptive advice from all of us relatively considered, then we can start focusing on our priorities on planet Earth, instead of politically popular ones only.  Collectively, we can create a vision that involves all of us so that we can know what needs to be done and the problems that exist on our planet at every level.   Together, we will solve all the most important problems on earth first while paying attention to all other problems at the same time. It will truly be amazing what 8 billion people can do when working together.  Imagine the waste of energy that we’ve spent overtime maintaining our borders and boundaries in a war like world. The Great Wall of China took 1 million people to build over 2500 years.  Imagine The opportunity cost lost on this effort when we could’ve been uniting towards more holistic endeavors as a priority.  The same opportunity cost lost Is wasted on existing systems, existing paradigms, and Anthropocentric maintenance of borders and boundaries in a figurative, literal and imaginative sense.  Currently, I find it important to employ holistic inspirational incentives for everyone on earth to get them involved.   Let’s get started on a new paradigm for everyone. Everything everywhere on earth together.

The current global landscape, while undeniably complex and multifaceted, demands an immediate and transformative shift in our collective approach. While patience is often a virtue, the magnitude of the challenges we face suggests we are at a critical juncture requiring decisive, concerted action. I fully recognize the profound complexities involved in shifting entrenched mindsets and reshaping global systems, moving humanity towards a more desired and sustainable future. This isn’t merely about incremental adjustments; it necessitates a fundamental re-evaluation of our priorities and the very fabric of our societal organization.

My conviction is that our initial, paramount focus must be on systematically dismantling the foundations of preventable suffering. This means prioritizing the global eradication of war, terrorism, homelessness, mass violence, and all forms of unnecessary hardship. These aren’t merely isolated issues; they are symptomatic of systemic failures that deplete our collective energy and potential.

Once we commit to addressing these foundational human imperatives, we must then embark on the ambitious yet essential task of articulating a unified vision for our planet. Imagine a global declaration, co-created and endorsed by every individual on Earth, outlining our shared aspirations for the future – a vision informed by the entirety of human knowledge, wisdom, and ethical understanding. This is not about imposition, but about collective discovery and commitment.

We must embrace the undeniable truth that future solutions are inherently inclusive. They necessitate the active participation of everyone, engaging with everything, in every corner of our world. The strength of this endeavor lies in the unique contributions of each individual, synergistically amplified by our collective efforts. As we transition towards becoming sustainable, proactive stewards and stakeholders of our planet, a natural curiosity will emerge, driving us to understand the holistic needs of our world – the cumulative totality of all life and environments.

Our planet presents an abundance of meaningful  potential contributions, ensuring that every person, regardless of their background, knowledge, or specific skills, can find a vital role. By implementing holistic, inspirational incentives, we can continuously empower individuals to adapt, learn, and contribute towards our desired future conditions. This unified effort will forge profound bonds, connecting us all with each other, with nature, with the broader environment, and strengthening our communities and families.

When we are united in purpose, guided by objectives collaboratively derived from the considered wisdom of all, we can then strategically focus our immense collective resources on the most pressing problems facing Earth, rather than being swayed solely by transient, politically expedient agendas. The potential of eight billion individuals, collaborating with a shared vision, is truly limitless. Imagine the historical waste of energy and innovation expended on maintaining divisive borders and boundaries in a world perpetually primed for conflict. The Great Wall of China, for instance, required the labor of a million people over two and a half millennia. Consider the enormous opportunity cost of such monumental efforts when that same energy could have been channeled into unifying, holistic endeavors for the advancement of all. This same squandering of potential continues today within existing systems, paradigms, and the anthropocentric maintenance of physical, metaphorical, and imaginative divisions.

It is imperative that we now actively cultivate holistic and inspirational incentives that engage every person on Earth. Let us embark together on this new paradigm, where everything, everywhere, is connected in a shared journey towards a flourishing future.

Richard Thomas Simmons

Ecosystem Geography Vision

I recently started referring to Robert Bailey’s Ecosystem Geography and Eco Regions Design for Sustainability again. A long time ago, I was struck by these books because they changed the way we think about borders and boundaries.  Regional needs assessments and advice should consider ecosystem geography at all scales.     With this method, we can prioritize prescriptions across the landscape and ensure everyone contributes.   For example, we can prioritize planting trees in areas where planting is needed.  I have also long considered the possibility of using some of our best agricultural lands to grow corn for food again. What immediately comes to mind is the issue of growing corn for ethanol.   Ethanol land should be transitioned back to providing for human nutrition on Earth.  Furthermore, this work is important because it demonstrates that nationalism can be violent.  Over time, there have been a considerable number of wars and terrorism associated with national boundaries. We also see the issue of cross-border migration, particularly in the United States.   If we consider everyone, everything, and everywhere within their Ecosystem geography, we can care for people in their homelands, regardless of the problems they face.   Therefore, it’s really about prioritization and consideration by prescription.   With geographic information systems, geographic information science, and all other sciences, we should be able to prioritize what needs to occur on the landscapes.   From cities to prairies and from towns to forests, we should be able to make helpful contributions to ecosystem geography.   With the Earth Unidiversity Research Explorer Cycle, we can involve everyone and everything on Earth to contribute.

The profound insights presented in Robert Bailey’s seminal works, “Ecosystem Geography” and “Eco-Regions: Design for Sustainability,” allow us to consider everything everywhere. These texts, which first captivated me years ago, fundamentally reshape our understanding of political borders and human-defined transitional boundaries by advocating for an ecological perspective. They underscore the critical necessity of integrating ecosystem geography, from the microscale to the macroregional, into any comprehensive assessment or prescriptive planning for human societies and natural environments worldwide. By adopting this holistic methodology, we can strategically prioritize interventions and resource allocation across the landscape, fostering widespread engagement and collective contributions toward sustainable and favorable cumulative totality environmental outcomes. For instance, this framework enables precise identification of optimal locations for ecological restoration, such as targeted tree-planting initiatives that maximize environmental benefits.

Furthermore, this ecological lens compels a re-evaluation of current land-use and ocean-use practices. I have long advocated reconsidering the allocation of our most fertile agricultural lands to food production. Given the escalating global demand for food and the pressures on food security, these invaluable agricultural resources must be returned to their primary purpose: sustaining human life on Earth.  In many situations, land may be transitioned back to prairie ecosystems.

The implications of this ecological paradigm extend beyond environmental management to the very fabric of human/creation coexistence. This work powerfully illustrates how arbitrary nationalistic boundaries can, at times, become sources of conflict and division. History bears witness to countless wars and acts of terrorism born from geopolitical demarcations that disregard ecological realities. We also observe contemporary challenges such as cross-border migration, particularly evident in regions such as the United States, which are often exacerbated by a disconnect between political borders and ecological carrying capacities. By adopting a perspective that considers the ecological geography that supports all life, we can develop solutions that prioritize the well-being of people in their homelands considering all of the complexities they face. This approach demonstrates that genuine stability and peace arise from understanding and respecting ecological connections.

Ultimately, progress hinges on informed prioritization and scientifically guided prescriptions. Leveraging advanced tools such as Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Remote Sensing, and Geographic Information Science, alongside a comprehensive suite of scientific disciplines, empowers us to make evidence-based decisions about what actions are most critical across diverse landscapes – from bustling urban centers to vast prairies, and from quaint towns to ancient forests. This scientific foundation allows us to prescribe thoughtful, beneficial contributions to ecosystem health and human well-being. By combining scientific developments with organized collaborative frameworks—such as a “University Research and Explorer Cycle”—it is possible to efficiently engage individuals and institutions globally to make significant contributions to the responsible management of the planet (the cumulative totality of everyone, everything, everywhere).

A great source for divine inspiration is available to everyone

Dear Everyone

Greetings in the spirit of divine grace and eternal salvation. May we all be continually embraced by God’s boundless grace and abundant blessings, finding solace and strength in His enduring presence.

Grace of eternal salvation, and may God be gracious and bless us.  Psalm 66 calls us to praise God.   Expanding on this concept, praise is essential for everyone, as it is a source of holistic positive energy.  Every day can be the beginning of a new life, according to Pope Leo.   He adds that God’s love renews the Earth.   He must see love as a multidimensional concept for everyone, everything, and everywhere on Earth. 


During Mass at the Vatican, calls for the care and protection of creation.  I suggest everyone listen to the Vatican Mass on Sunday and on every holy day, so that Pope Leo can spread positive energy to everyone on Earth.   There are too many ideas he is passing along for you to capture and tell you.  

As beautifully articulated in Psalm 66, the act of praising God is not merely a ritual but a profound pathway to spiritual and personal rejuvenation. It serves as a wellspring of holistic positive energy, vital for nurturing our spirits and fostering well-being in every aspect of our lives. This intentional devotion allows us to tap into a universal source of strength and optimism, transforming our outlook and interactions.

Drawing wisdom from spiritual luminaries, such as the venerable Pope Leo, we are reminded that each dawn presents an opportunity for a new beginning, a fresh start. His profound insight that God’s love continuously “renews the face of the Earth” underscores the multifaceted, all-encompassing nature of divine affection. This love transcends boundaries, embracing every individual, every creation, and every corner of our planet, offering perpetual hope and restoration. It describes a love so vast that it encompasses all things at all times.    Ultimately, this should be a great source of inspiration for unity on Earth.

Furthermore, the consistent message emanating from the Vatican, particularly during its sacred masses, underscores our collective responsibility for the “care and protection of creation.” This is a poignant call to environmental stewardship, urging us to recognize our role as custodians of God’s magnificent handiwork and to act with reverence and responsibility towards the natural world. It is a fundamental aspect of our faith to preserve the gifts bestowed upon us.

I wholeheartedly encourage you to set aside time, perhaps on Sundays or other holy days, to engage with these uplifting messages, whether by listening to the Vatican’s broadcasts or exploring the rich tapestry of spiritual teachings. By doing so, we not only connect with a source of profound spiritual nourishment but also enable these powerful principles of hope, renewal, forgiveness, and stewardship to resonate in our own lives and radiate positive energy worldwide. The depth and breadth of these divine inspirations are indeed vast, offering endless wisdom for our journey.

With warmest regards and blessings,

Richard Thomas Simmons

Are we being manufactured into servants and slaves instead of holistic adaptive contributors

I learned that according to the mass I attended, we are Servants though sinners. Although this was not the intention of this phrase, I wonder if this is where the manufacturing of sin and crime comes from. In particular, I wonder whether that concept was taken and used out of context by those with power in our world. Are we turning people into slaves or servants?  Hence, are we impacting them with the extraction exchange exclusion takings cycle because of this?   What is the concept of employment?  I believe we should all be connected to a unidiversity first before we have loyalty to the idea of employment.   

I’ve been reflecting on a concept I encountered recently during a televised Mass: the notion that we are fundamentally “servants though sinners.” While I fully appreciate the theological depth and humility this phrase is intended to convey, it has, perhaps unexpectedly, prompted broader reflection on societal structures and power dynamics.

My thoughts drifted to whether such a potent spiritual idea, when divorced from its original sacred context, could inadvertently contribute to, or even be co-opted in, the crafting of societal norms that define “sin” and “crime” in a secular sense. I question whether those in positions of significant influence have historically, or even currently, reinterpreted and used this concept in ways that serve their own interests, perhaps at the expense of general human well-being. Does it intentionally create irrational societal stratification?

This line of inquiry directly relates to the modern landscape of human interaction and economic participation. Are we, as a society, perhaps unknowingly, maintaining systems that turn individuals into mere cogs—placing them in a state of constant subservience instead of encouraging real autonomy and growth? I am especially concerned about what I see as a widespread cycle of extraction, transactional relationships, exclusion, and appropriation of individual effort. This cycle often appears as systems built to take value without fair compensation, fostering purely economic exchanges that marginalize those considered less productive and ultimately seize the fruits of labor for a privileged few.

This brings me to a fundamental question: what truly defines the concept of employment in our modern era? Is it a partnership of continuous adaptive mutual growth, or has it, in some instances, become a sophisticated form of obligation where an individual’s worth is inextricably linked to their economic utility only?

My profound conviction is that our primary allegiance and connection should first be to a foundational “Unidiversity” – a universal recognition of our shared humanity, inherent dignity, and interconnectedness as beings on this planet. This fundamental bond, this sense of collective belonging and purpose, should, in my view, precede and inform any loyalty or commitment we develop towards the construct of “employment” or economic roles. It is only by centering ourselves in this shared human experience that we can hope to build truly equitable and empowering systems for all.

Richard Thomas Simmons