Irrespective of the temporary ravaging that the coronavirus is having on our world’s health and healthcare systems, I am heartened by our spirit of resilience and the learning opportunities and increased respect for our planet that will be—or should be—lasting side effects of the pandemic.

This outbreak should leave no doubt in anyone’s mind that we live in a globally interconnected, integrated, interdependent society—when China coughs, the United States sneezes—physically and economically. A crisis in one country (unbreathable air, incessant droughts or rising and warming waters with resulting food insecurity) causes such internal unrest that its citizens flee en masse, causing crises for many other countries.

It’s become clear that as global temperatures rise in North Texas with warmer winters and record-setting rain, our delicate ecological cycles are running amuck. Just as when our wake and sleep cycles aren’t observed, things get crazy. Speaking of environmental threats, the toll on our collective mental health often goes unacknowledged. Many are experiencing anxiety about our physical, economic and financial well-being, not to mention an unknown future. 

This season of worldwide health crises reminds us that environmental and health threats impact us all. Those of us who aren’t directly affected will definitely be impacted by the effects on others—bar none. What this shows us is that we all must care about our environment and about each other. God created this ecosystem (the Earth, human beings and our health) for us to be one with each other; we are inextricably connected. I find it amazing that while the planet can do without us, we can’t do without it—yet we don’t treat it that way!

In his omniscience, God also gave us a built-in defense against many (though not all) contagious illnesses: It’s called our immune system. Simply stated, the immune system is a complex network of cells and proteins that defends the body against infection. It keeps a record of every germ it has ever defeated, so it can quickly recognize and destroy that destructive germ or microbe if it enters the body again. That’s why some people may have the coronavirus but have no symptoms, and why others may have been exposed to it but don’t contract it. Our job, especially now, is to keep our immune system strong and healthy—so that it can defend us well from this new attack. 

With a strong nod to maintaining that health-defense system, our feature “Healthy Home, Healthy Kids” explains how to create a wholesome home environment for kids (and the rest of the family) by incorporating what’s needed on a healthy planet—that is, clean air, clean water and clean food.

While this month’s editorial theme was planned long ago, it could not be timelier. Our article “Grassroots Climate Change Strategies” reminds us that there is much to be done to save our world, and that it’s within everyone’s grasp to effect those changes. In “Planet Rescue,” Julie Marshall shows how individuals, especially very young ones, are making a difference and inspiring others. Similarly, “North Texas Climate Warriors” profiles some of our local unsung heroes to prove that anyone can take action to save the Earth using their own talents and strengths within their own spheres of influence and in their own backyards.

This month’s issue is chock-full of healthy-living information and tips for boosting your immune system, as well as lots of food for thought (and action) to inspire us to environmental empathy. As usual, we hope that you will find something in this issue that helps you live a healthier life on a healthier planet—and gives you mental and spiritual food during your time of sheltering in place.

Blessings until next month,

Bernice Butler