“In the small town of Santiago, Brazil, a project called Moeda Verde (Green Currency) is reshaping what community value looks like. Instead of treating food scraps as waste, residents bring their organic leftovers to collection stations and receive a symbolic local currency in return.
This ‘green money’ can be used as currency at markets around the town, while the waste is transformed into fertilizer to support local farmers. More than 300 people a month now participate, and hundreds of tons of compost have been created. What makes this more than just a recycling program is its spirit. The town treats caring as currency -- honoring small acts of responsibility as meaningful contributions to the common good. People say they feel seen, useful, and connected, and neighbors trade smiles along with their green coins. In a world driven by money, this little town offers another kind of wealth: a shared economy of kindness and belonging.” (From the newsletter Spiritual Passages)
I love this story because caring, transformation, and belonging is at core of what we are doing here at UCBA. We are connected by a desire to grow in consciousness and oneness. Our wealth is the presence of the Divine in each person. Creativity blooms and grows in our members’ lives and in the activities here. I see both our newer members and long-time members actively engaged in many areas. I see kindness and connection unfolding every day. We are transformed by the renewing of our minds and our sacred service. It is a joy to behold!
As we head into the holidays, may we do our inner work and serve with love and joy! I am so happy to be a part of your lives.
With great love,
