When Earth Overshoot Day and Mother’s Day fall on the same day...

...like today, 10 May. For me, this triggers conflicting thoughts and feelings.

On the one hand, this has to do with the history of Mother’s Day, which was commercially imported into Europe and politically exploited during the Nazi era. Today, it is weighed down by collective expectations: gifts, flowers, family gatherings – often without question, so as not to offend mothers or appear ungrateful.

For me, the day stands for an archetypal principle: unconditional devotion, acceptance and love. Maternal instincts – to protect, nurture and love with care – which are inherent in every human being and in nature. Regardless of gender or social roles. It is our human nature.

Why do we not consistently apply this instinct to our Mother Earth?

Today, in Germany, we have completely used up our annual renewable reserves. From tomorrow, we will be exploiting the Earth. In Italy, where I live, Earth Overshoot Day was already a week ago.

Political rollbacks of climate measures are pushing the problem further into the future.

Instead, we ignore it – and mask it with our individual needs: long car journeys, lavishly wrapped gifts that are ecologically questionable.

What makes sense instead is: nurturing relationships – and striking a balance.

Between personal desires and environmental consequences.

Our European lifestyle consumes the resources of three Earths. But we only have this one.

How do we show love and respect for Mother Earth?

How do we put this into practice through our behaviour, decisions and actions?

Today is the perfect day to reflect, decide and act.

How do you feel about this?