Ecology—a caring relationship

Alex Javier Opazo Cid—Concepción, Chile

When the Chilean government wanted to develop a mountainous area where the Mapuches live, I decided to go there to help them. Before I went, there was no communication between the Mapuches and the government. But by the time I left, the government had decided to allow these indigenous people to stay in their homeland.

The Mapuches have a very spiritual view of the world, and a respectful relationship with God. I've learned a lot from them that has reignited my own spirituality. They live in a simple way and have a very beautiful relationship with the earth. They see God reflected in nature, and try to care for nature—to respect it and protect it. They don't want to see their land destroyed, or the natural resources depleted by large corporations. To them, this is disrespectful to God.

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