We Read Es Devlin’s Recommendation: World As Lover, World As Self
London, February 2024
Written by Alex Bäuml
World as Lover, World as Self by Joanna Macy is a profound exploration of the interconnectedness of humanity and the natural world.
In this insightful book, Macy invites us to shift our perspective on the complex and copious challenges of the world, recognising that the health of the planet is intricately linked to our own emotional and spiritual well-being.
Drawing on her deep understanding of systems theory, ecology, and Buddhist philosophy, she articulates a vision that inspires hope and resilience in the face of the environmental crises of the modern world. These teachings are her life’s work, called “The Work That Reconnects” and provides a guided progression through the natural path of emotions in response to world’s plights.
Macy powerfully emphasises that acknowledging our current environmental challenges is the first step toward transformation. She encourages readers to fully experience all of their emotions — fear, grief, anger, depression, and joy — associated with the ecological crisis, allowing this emotional response to motivate into meaningful action. Reading her words is a beautifully consoling and unifying act that truly lightens the weight of the world on our shoulders, and helps us understand that we do not bear this burden alone.
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Macy's eloquent writing and compassionate outlook make complex ideas easily digestible. Her emphasis on the interconnectedness of life urges us to cultivate a sense of belonging within the larger web of existence, fostering a deeper relationship with nature and each other. As she shares her wisdom, Macy inspires us not only to understand our role in the world, but to embrace our potential as agents of change. The transformation of despair into action cultivates within us an intense love and understanding for the world both as both lover and as self.
We are not too late to create lasting change in this world.
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