Action

Our current living systems are out of synch with our natural environment. We are using the planet's natural resources at an unsustainable rate and have created some serious problems: soil errosion, deforestation, water and air pollution, loss of biodiversity, climate change, and more. On the positive side, these problems and challenges have created tremendous opportunities, and there is incredible movement taking place right now. Environmentalist, Paul Hawken, in his book The Blessed Unrest, estimates that there are currently over one million groups around the world today, dedicated to positive change! This is the largest collective movement in human history and it is rapidly growing organically, from the grassroots. Each one of us is a part of this movement and has an active role to play in solving these problems. There is much work to be done to reconnect with the Earth and shape a sustainable future in which all life can thrive. Mindful Roots advocates actions which help to reconnect people with our natural environment and discover our true nature. Actions include rituals, ceremonies, music, poetry, dance, reading, story and myth, nature-walks, pilgrimage, chanting, meditation, herbalism, social or political action, yoga, tai chi, and other healings arts, and much more...

Seth Powell's Pilgrimage for Peace:

a thousand mile journey on foot up the coast of California, from San Diego to Arcata.


Why Walk?

Walking is the most ancient mode of transportation, yet it is seen as a burden in today's 70 mile-per-hour-world. Walking allows me to be fully present during my journey. Walking up the California Coast will provide the perfect opportunity to slowly shift my life from San Diego to my new life in the forests of Humboldt, one step, one breath at a time.

John Francis has ignited in me a passion for pilgrimage, following in the grand tradition of Peace Pilgrim, Henry David Thoreau, John Muir, and countless others. In a world filled with words, buildings, traffic lights, and pollution, I often feel lost, dizzy, and confused. Like many others growing up in the suburbs, my life has been isolated and removed from the wilderness. I hope this journey will instill in me a sense of place in the natural world and serve as an environment for true self discovery. I aim to cultivate my own ecological consciousness through a direct experiencing of nature.

Walking 15 miles every day with a backpack in the heat will not be easy. The journey may take up to three months, however, it is a challenge I am passionately looking forward to taking on. I will walk in the spirit of peace, with the aim of raising environmental awareness. I hope my journey will inspire others. I hope it will raise questions and judgments, so we can all become more mindful of the delicate dance of life and the powerful effect humans have on the earth.

I believe the answers to some of the greatest environmental problems we face can be found deep within. We need to examine our roots, listen to the voices of our ancestors, feel our feet on the earth, and learn to live lightly. This pilgrimage affirms my dedication to help heal the wounds of humanity and mend our relationship to the earth. This is my service.

Contribute

I have been incredibly fortunate, recieving a tremendous amount of blessings and support thus far, affording me the opportunity to embark on this journey. I am, however, still accepting contributions towards food, water, and shelter. Your contribution would be received with enormous gratitude on behalf of this young man's pilgrimage for peace.

10% of the proceeds go towards the non-profit PlanetWalk, founded by John Francis, dedicated to raising environmental consciousness and promoting earth stewardship through pilgrimage.

Contributions can be made through Paypal with an account, or with a credit/debit card.
Or, if you prefer you can mail a check to the following address:

Seth Powell
4056 Marianne Dr.
Lafayette, Ca 94549

Thank you all for your love and support!

Peace be with you!

Seth Powell