Sangha of Auspicious Companions

Catholic Sisters Return Land to a Tribal Nation

The Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration sold a two-acre lakefront property in northern Wisconsin, valued at $2.6 million, to the Lac Du Flambeau Band of Lake Superior Chippewa for $30,000, the price the sisters paid for it in 1966. Over the past years, the sisters have been involved in several educational, Land Back, and Land Justice movements. They are aware they can never repair the damage of the past from the boarding schools in which they participated that stripped Indigenous children of their culture. “One of the Franciscan hallmarks is to be in right relationship with all of creation, all people. And so this is another opportunity to live into that.” The Tribal President said, “This return represents more than the restoration of land — it is the restoration of balance, dignity, and our sacred connection to the places our ancestors once walked.”

Be The Change

Explore pathways in recognition of the sacred to be in right relationship with Indigenous people and place in your community.

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Has the World Become Less Grumpy?

A global survey on emotional health shows people, generally, are cheering up. “The study tracks the emotions that people experience on any given day, such as anger, sadness, laughter and enjoyment.” Numbers increased as “… nearly nine in ten said they had felt respected and more than 70% said they had smiled, laughed or enjoyed themselves.” There are many factors that influence their emotions, and “Not everyone is finding reasons to smile.” Circumstances greatly influence the responses. Poorer countries, politically unstable states, and those in war grow angrier, sadder, more worried, and less respected. “Age plays a part too. Young adults everywhere are angrier than older people; the middle-aged are the most stressed.” Not surprisingly, the highest share of enjoyment was in Denmark that also ranked second in the World Happiness Report.

Be The Change

Monitor your emotions on a given day. Perhaps that awareness will help you tap into the internal joy that does not depend upon what happens.

Tama Kieves: Being Available to Infinite Intelligence

What does it mean to truly trust yourself? Tama Kieves, a Harvard Law grad turned author, delves into the importance of listening to the inner voice of love rather than fear. Her journey from a high-flying legal career to a life as a creative and coach shows that trusting yourself isn’t always easy, but it’s crucial. As a friend once asked her, “If you’ve been this successful doing something you don’t love, what could you do with what you love?” Kieves shares practices that encourage kindness and resilience, emphasizing that personal growth happens when we open our hearts and embrace the unknown.

Be The Change

Spend a few moments each day reflecting on your dreams and aspirations, and write down what your inner voice is telling you.

The Fifth Monk’s Journey in Animal Advocacy

The journey of the “fifth monk” is a tale of four monks who realized that transforming the world required hitting every level: from direct rescue efforts to consciousness transformation. The fifth monk teaches that “skillful means” —wisdom combined with compassion — can invoke a transformational quality in systems change. “When we unite them—when our actions arise from both clear seeing and an open heart—we become skillful,” Ariel Nessel observes. In the case of food systems and animal advocacy, Nessel adapts this parable and reflects on his own journey towards more compassionate food systems.

Be The Change

Reflect on the concept of “skillful means” discussed in the article. Think of a problem you are concerned about or trying to solve. Take your next step towards it by asking how would both compassion and wisdom hold it?

Preschoolers Rewilding for Health

In Finland, young children are trading plastic playgrounds for mud, wild plants, and moss, leading to noticeable improvements in their health. This bold experiment shows that by “making food” with sand and soil, children aren’t just playing – they’re reshaping their immune systems. With tiny scientists at play, researchers discovered that getting hands dirty with nature boosts immune defenses, reduces harmful bacteria, and fosters a balance between the biodiversity on their skin and gut. As one principal scientist put it, “It’s good for national health.” The gardening revolution is catching on, spreading a wave of green spaces across communities, proving that nature is more than just a playground; it’s an essential part of healthy childhood development.

Be The Change

Transform your local park or backyard into a children-friendly green space by planting diverse plants and encouraging natural play.

Reviving Lost Connections

In a world often consumed by digital chatter, genuine friendships can become like distant echoes in the canyon of time. This heartwarming piece follows individuals, like Jennifer and Molly, who rekindle friendships across decades and continents, proving that “strong friendships really do stay for the long haul.” Despite life’s chaos, the simple act of reaching out can bridge forgotten gaps. Expert Marisa Franco notes that our fear of rejection often stops us, but more often than not, people are “delighted to hear from their old friends.” These stories remind us that while technology can create distance, it can also be a tool to reconnect, urging us to cherish those who’ve shaped our lives.

Be The Change

Reach out to a long-lost friend with a heartfelt message or plan a catch-up call.

Building Hope with Containers

When Wanona Satcher started her company, she wanted to address the issue of affordable housing in her hometown of Atlanta, Georgia. What surfaced were affordable homes made out of recycled shipping containers, which she calls Plug-In-Pods. These innovative pods are not just homes but also vibrant community spaces, integrating eco-conscious materials such as low-VOC paints and hemp insulation as well as designing for communal spaces between units. The design was so successful that Satcher and her team are now also creating impactful housing projects in Durham, North Carolina for homeless veterans, fostering environments for rehabilitation and community. “Affordable housing is one of the most critical components of an equitable community,” says Satcher, as they work to provide sustainable and restorative spaces where everyone can thrive.

Be The Change

Volunteer with local organizations supporting innovative housing solutions for marginalized groups.

Lessons in Service From the Love of My Life

In a heartfelt tale of love and service, Harvard University Professor Rebecca Henderson shares the profound lessons learned from her husband, an esteemed astronomer. Despite a successful career that included cosmic discoveries like the Huchra Quasar, his legacy was defined by an unwavering commitment to giving and service. “There is almost nothing better in this world than giving and giving and giving,” Rebecca reflects. Her story invites us to cherish everyday moments and recognize the hidden suffering of others, while embodying a spirit of service and kindness.

Be The Change

Perform a simple act of kindness for someone in your community and encourage others to do the same.