We want to leave our children a living planet, and we also want a satisfying, enjoyable lifestyle. How do we get there? The paths for each of us may be different, but we can learn from each other and from CNY experts. Let’s get together to explore how we can live green – AND live "good" – in Central New York!
Meeting information
If you want to be on the email list to be notified of upcoming meetings and events (generally about one email a month, sometimes two) send your name and email address to lglgcny /at/ verizon.net (substituting the @ sign).
purpose of the group
We're a new group starting in this new year of 2009. The group will evolve over the years, but the following are a tentative statement of our goals and a first vision of what we might do.
To explore ways to create lifestyles that are both earth-friendly and personally satisfying.
- We'll work to change outwardly:
Making changes and taking action in our lives to live green and live good. - But we'll also work to change inwardly:
Thinking about our "wants" vs. "needs"; what parts of our lifestyle really satisfy and which are unnecessary or even get in the way; transforming our relationship to people and "stuff."
Why do this together?
Individuals can work by themselves to make all of these changes. But there's power in groups! And increasingly this power is being confirmed by science. The social contagion of obesity and happiness are two issues in the news recently. Why not green and good living, too! Sometimes the most powerful stimulus for change is seeing the changes your family, friends, or even strangers make. You can be inspired by the changes you see your fellow group members make - and you can inspire them by your own efforts.
Our activities
We'll hold regular monthly meetings so people can:
- learn from each other and be inspired by sharing our experiences in living green and living good
- learn from a formal program featuring speakers, videos, field trips, or other activities
We'll also sponsor other activities beyond regular meetings that offer opportunities for regular attendees and for others in the Central New York community to explore a topic in depth or to participate in one-time events. For example, we'll host Northwest Earth Institute discussion groups or participate in community projects.
Possible topics
There are many parts of a sustainable life that we can learn about. Here are just a few: food issues, energy and transportation, consumerism, our houses, clothing, healthy personal care product, safe household cleaning products, parenting issues, taking back our time, justice issues such as Fair Trade, rebuilding our local economy, simple living, engaging in our community, our financial life and investments, landscaping, recreational choices, and others.