Living In The Time Of Dying - Watch Full Documentary

The Shaking Foundations

Our world is trembling, unraveling at its seams. The social fabric, political systems, and, most crucially, our ecological system are on the brink of collapse. Is it certain that the human species will face extinction? No. But is it highly, highly probable? Absolutely. It's challenging to envision a scenario where it doesn't end that way. Millions are suffering as we speak, and the reality is grimmer than the narratives we're fed. We are in peril, and the direction remains uncertain. I'm Michael Shaw, and this is my journey to explore what it means to embrace this existential threat.

Bursting Bubbles: The Reality of Ecosystem Collapse

Recently, I mustered the courage to confront the stark reality of ecosystem collapse. While CO2 emissions and rising temperatures capture our attention, pollution, loss of biodiversity, and the destruction of our natural habitats are advancing swiftly. We aren't just facing the sixth mass extinction; humanity itself is in grave danger. In my years of exploration, guided by the insightful Catherine Ingram, a Dharma teacher for nearly three decades, I delved deep into the enormity of our predicament. Few perceive it directly, and even those who grasp the evidence struggle to act decisively.

The Journey of Acceptance: Selling the House for a Cause

To truly understand, I needed to connect with others who saw this reality clearly. I decided to sell my house, a daunting step for someone with no experience in documentary filmmaking, to embark on this transformative journey. My first meeting was with Dahr Jamail, a figure I admired for his uncharted journalistic path in reporting the 2003 Iraq War. His insights on climate change, documented in "The End of Ice," became a climate change classic on my shelf. The journey to meet him led me to the United States, a leap into the unknown, a bold stride toward enlightenment.

Deep Conversations: Diving into the Melting Arctic

In a conversation with Dahr, we explored the profound impact of losing Arctic ice. It's easy to dismiss it as abstract, especially for those far from the Arctic or not directly dependent on it. However, the loss of Arctic sea ice would be a catastrophic consequence of the crisis. Scientists predict a sea-level rise of at least 100 feet, even if we miraculously halt all CO2 emissions. Coastal cities worldwide would vanish. The urgency of this reality pierced my resistance, and I started questioning the narrative.

Confronting Uncomfortable Truths: Deep Adaptation and Brave Conversations

The article "Deep Adaptation," penned by Jim Bendell in 2018, left an indelible mark, triggering a movement with the same name. Attending a workshop led by Bendell, I discovered the profound impact of acknowledging the severity of climate change. Similarly, Dahr Jamail's July 2018 article, 'Deep Adaptation,' shook me awake. It made me realize that climate change is worse than reported, and the time for action is now.

In conclusion, embracing the unpredictable, bursting the bubbles of denial, embarking on a journey of acceptance, and engaging in deep conversations are vital steps in navigating the chaotic symphony of our world. The truth is uncomfortable, but in facing it, we find the courage to act. As we grapple with the impending challenges, let's not shy away from the uncomfortable truths and instead transform them into catalysts for positive change. The journey may be uncertain, but with awareness and collective action, we can still compose a harmonious melody in the face of chaos.