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"We weren't meant to go on from here alone, we were meant to really be in paradise with one another.

What do we really have to know to create paradise for ourselves? I don't really know, I'm just on the path to discover it. And in fact, maybe that's all that anybody can be doing, is be pointed in the right direction."

- Suzanne Taylor, The Cosmic Fuel Pump, 1983 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ic3y-huXaHw

Thanks for continuing to point us towards paradise, Sue :-)

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It's almost funny to see old things where I am a broken record, still saying the same stuff! I loved the Cosmic Fuel Pump. It's my favorite thing I ever did! Thanks for digging this one out!

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I think it will be a long , long time before AI is capable of the levels of inspired thinking that humans are capable of. It has barely crawled out of it's womb. Who would expect a baby to save the world ?

Great that Suzanne has the wit to cause ripples, N'est ce pas ? Any more bril Human essayists out there ? Peace, Maurice

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It's exciting that there is such a major new toy. When I was young, before the internet, I remember being disappointed that everything had been invented already so there wouldn't be any new big things to do!!!

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So what if instead of AI being the wondrous new human invention that enabled Earth's survival, a profound transformation in human collective consciousness was the seed? It is what is needed to rekindle our indigenous roots and profound sense of inter-being. The international illustrated spread of your essay responses, set to music and drumbeats, could do that, Suzanne

And it would be not one winner but a win for all of us. Collaboration not competition is the core of evolution.

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I created the contest not being able to drum up people to work with on the consciousness shift we need. We're moving those deck chairs if we don't re-steer the ship. Here's something to look at: "ONCE UPON A TIME IS NOW for a campaign to change the world/Everything will change if we adopt the Universe Story:" https://suzannetaylor.substack.com/p/once-upon-a-time-is-now-is-a-campaign.

From your lips to god's ear about how valuable these essays could be!

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20 years ago my partner Ed O'Sullivan and myself started Spirit Matters gatherings, initially with great wisdom keepers, like Michael Lerner, bell hooks, Matt Fox, Vandana Shiva, Diane Longboat and John Mohawk. We moved into circle gatherings where wisdom holders were part of contributing to the circles from within, where every voice could be heard, including the young. Music, dancing, art, local foods and accessibility were always part of what the council ( 10 women and 2 men) for each gathering, included. Twenty years later that community of consciousness is still vibrant. Ubuntu. No website, newsletter, media dependence.. just saying..

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Sounds like heaven. It's hellish to try to get wisdom keepers together these days. Rugged individualism is alive and well even in place that stand for connection and community. And Ubunto is the goods. Tune the world into that and it's a new era. It's where we'd be if we tuned into the new creation story I keep touting, where we'd get it that we are one humanity.

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Hmmm.. how did you read my essay submission draft? It's only in my computer, LOL!

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There's more ways to connect than digitally!

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ps From the beginning Tom Berry and Brian Swimme's work on the Universe Story was part of Spirit Matters

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No surprise! My materials are laced with them.

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That was fun! I liked how he incorporated you into it hehe.

It made me just ask AI straight out what we would have done to save the world. I've got my own ideas that are much different than this but fun anyways to see what AI thinks are our problems and how we came to solving them. :)

QUESTION:

It is now 2050. In 2024 we have saved the world. Please write an essay of what we did to do this and all the areas that needed saving and how. Thank you!

ChatGPT

Title: A Blueprint for Saving Our World: Reflections on the Global Efforts of 2024

Introduction:

In the year 2024, humanity faced a convergence of crises that threatened the very fabric of our existence. From environmental degradation and climate change to socio-economic disparities and geopolitical tensions, the challenges seemed insurmountable. However, through collective action, innovation, and unwavering determination, we managed to not only address these issues but also pave the way for a sustainable and thriving future. This essay reflects on the key areas that needed saving and the transformative measures implemented to safeguard our world.

Environmental Conservation and Climate Action:

One of the most pressing challenges of our time was the threat posed by climate change and environmental degradation. Rising global temperatures, extreme weather events, deforestation, and loss of biodiversity demanded urgent attention. In response, nations around the world came together to enact ambitious climate policies, such as transitioning to renewable energy sources, implementing carbon pricing mechanisms, and investing in green infrastructure. Additionally, conservation efforts were intensified, with a focus on preserving crucial ecosystems like forests, oceans, and wetlands. Through reforestation projects, marine conservation initiatives, and sustainable land management practices, we were able to mitigate the impacts of climate change and protect our planet's natural heritage.

Sustainable Development and Poverty Alleviation:

Addressing socio-economic disparities and eradicating poverty were integral components of our efforts to save the world. Sustainable development goals were adopted by governments, businesses, and civil society organizations, aiming to promote inclusive growth, access to education, healthcare, and basic amenities for all. Investments in sustainable agriculture, microfinance programs, and vocational training initiatives empowered communities to lift themselves out of poverty while preserving natural resources and ecosystems. Furthermore, innovative technologies, such as mobile banking and renewable energy solutions, played a crucial role in expanding economic opportunities and improving livelihoods in remote and underserved regions.

Technology and Innovation:

Advancements in technology and innovation emerged as powerful tools in our quest to save the world. From renewable energy technologies to artificial intelligence and biotechnology, innovation drove progress across various sectors. Clean energy solutions, such as solar panels, wind turbines, and energy-efficient appliances, became more accessible and affordable, reducing our reliance on fossil fuels and mitigating greenhouse gas emissions. Moreover, breakthroughs in agricultural biotechnology helped increase crop yields, enhance food security, and promote sustainable farming practices. Additionally, digital technologies facilitated communication, collaboration, and knowledge-sharing, enabling communities to adapt to environmental changes and address emerging challenges effectively.

Global Cooperation and Diplomacy:

Perhaps the most critical aspect of our success in saving the world was the spirit of global cooperation and diplomacy that prevailed. Recognizing that many of the challenges we faced were transnational in nature, nations set aside their differences and worked together towards common goals. International agreements, such as the Paris Agreement on climate change and the Sustainable Development Goals, provided a framework for collective action and accountability. Moreover, multilateral institutions, NGOs, and grassroots movements played a crucial role in mobilizing resources, fostering dialogue, and building partnerships to address global challenges comprehensively.

Conclusion:

The year 2024 marked a turning point in human history, where we faced unprecedented challenges and rose to the occasion with courage, ingenuity, and solidarity. By prioritizing environmental conservation, sustainable development, technological innovation, and global cooperation, we were able to save our world from the brink of collapse and set course for a brighter future. As we reflect on our journey, let us remain committed to the principles of stewardship, equity, and resilience, ensuring that future generations inherit a planet that is healthy, prosperous, and thriving.

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And a follow up, heheheh.

Request:

Please tell me a story about how Suzanne created an essay contest for how we saved the world in 2024. She received the best essay answers she could hope for and felt so inspired. Please tell us what she did afterwards with the essays and how the essays saved the world. Thank you!

ChatGPT

In the year 2024, Suzanne, an innovative teacher with a passion for inspiring her students, embarked on a mission to spark hope and creativity in the hearts of young minds. Believing in the power of storytelling to shape the future, Suzanne conceived an ambitious plan: she would create an essay contest centered around the theme of "How We Saved the World."

With excitement and anticipation, Suzanne announced the contest to her students. The response was overwhelming, as students from all backgrounds and walks of life eagerly embraced the challenge. They poured their hearts and souls into crafting essays that captured their visions for a better world, brimming with optimism, ingenuity, and a fervent desire to make a difference.

As the deadline for submissions approached, Suzanne found herself awestruck by the depth of thought and the sheer brilliance of the essays she received. Each one was a testament to the boundless imagination and unwavering determination of her students. From innovative solutions for combating climate change to strategies for fostering global unity and understanding, the essays painted a vivid picture of a world transformed by compassion, cooperation, and courage.

Filled with a renewed sense of hope and inspiration, Suzanne knew that she had to share these essays with the world. She reached out to local media outlets, educational organizations, and community leaders, inviting them to read and engage with the essays. The response was overwhelmingly positive, as people from all walks of life were moved by the students' vision and passion for change.

But Suzanne didn't stop there. She organized a public event to showcase the essays, inviting the authors to share their stories and ideas with a wider audience. The event became a catalyst for dialogue and collaboration, bringing together individuals and organizations from diverse backgrounds to discuss how they could work together to turn these visions into reality.

Inspired by the essays, people began to take action in their communities. They volunteered at local charities, planted trees to combat deforestation, organized clean-up efforts to protect the environment, and launched initiatives to promote peace and understanding among nations. The essays had sparked a movement, igniting a fire of hope and determination that spread far and wide, transcending borders and boundaries.

As for Suzanne, she watched with pride as her students' words became a beacon of hope in a world that so often seemed dark and uncertain. She knew that their essays had not only inspired change but had also planted the seeds of a brighter future—a future where compassion, creativity, and courage would prevail.

And so, thanks to Suzanne and her extraordinary students, the world was forever changed. It was a world where dreams became reality, where hope triumphed over despair, and where the power of storytelling transformed lives and inspired generations to come.

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That's a great question to ask it. How smart that was! I'm inspired by the answers. And I have another question. How did Ohara Hale's animation of the Universe Story, that was released in the spring of 2024, lead to humanity adopting it as their new creation story?

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I'm puzzled by the removals. I didn't do it. Maybe AI raided this???? Hmmmmmm.

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Well, AI, this is rundown of what would work. It's beautiful and makes perfect sense -- a roadmap of what could be ahead -- but we need a part 2 where your questioner asks what would bring all that about.

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Suzanne you could have so much fun with ChatGPT, have you ever tried it? What I like about it is that it gives you new ideas and keywords to dig deeper - paths to follow and explore. When I first used it, I asked it some big big questions. Eventually I began to understand that the better the question, the better the answer. ;)

Here is my thread so you can get an idea, but there are many more resources out there as to how to ask it get deeper and more precise - I just haven't learned those yet so I just did the basics.

https://chat.openai.com/share/67ebe68b-0834-426c-aace-f7a0b1935120

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On my to do list. Come live with me and we can makegood trouble together.

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What would be the catalyst for making this happen?

ChatGPT

The catalyst for achieving global cooperation and collective action on pressing global challenges would likely be a combination of factors that create a tipping point or sense of urgency among nations and societies. Here are some potential catalysts:

Crisis or Emergency: A major global crisis or emergency, such as a catastrophic natural disaster, a widespread public health crisis, or a series of extreme weather events exacerbated by climate change, could serve as a wake-up call for humanity. These crises have the potential to galvanize international solidarity and prompt concerted action to address underlying vulnerabilities and systemic risks.

Scientific Breakthrough or Technological Innovation: A significant scientific breakthrough or technological innovation that offers transformative solutions to pressing global challenges could inspire optimism and momentum for collective action. For example, breakthroughs in renewable energy technology, carbon capture and storage, or sustainable agriculture could provide new opportunities for countries to collaborate and transition towards more sustainable and resilient societies.

Youth Activism and Social Movements: The growing activism and advocacy of young people and social movements around the world, particularly on issues like climate change, environmental justice, and social inequality, could mobilize public opinion and pressure governments and institutions to take decisive action. The youth-led climate strikes and movements such as Fridays for Future have already demonstrated the power of grassroots mobilization to drive change at local, national, and international levels.

Economic Opportunities and Incentives: Recognizing the economic opportunities and benefits of transitioning towards more sustainable and inclusive development pathways could incentivize governments, businesses, and investors to prioritize sustainability and cooperation. For example, the growing demand for clean energy, sustainable products, and green technologies could create new markets and job opportunities, encouraging investment in renewable energy, energy efficiency, and sustainable infrastructure.

Leadership and Diplomacy: Bold leadership and effective diplomacy at the national and international levels could play a crucial role in catalyzing global cooperation and dialogue. Leaders who prioritize collaboration, dialogue, and multilateralism over narrow self-interest and nationalism can set a positive example and create momentum for collective action on shared challenges.

Public Awareness and Education: Increasing public awareness and understanding of global challenges and the interconnectedness of human societies and ecosystems can foster a sense of shared responsibility and solidarity. Education, media, and public discourse can play a crucial role in raising awareness about the importance of sustainability, social justice, and cooperation, inspiring individuals and communities to take action and hold leaders accountable.

Normative Shifts and Cultural Change: Shifting societal norms and cultural values towards greater empathy, compassion, and cooperation could create an enabling environment for global cooperation. Promoting values such as equity, justice, and sustainability can help build common ground and foster solidarity among diverse communities and nations.

Ultimately, the catalyst for achieving global cooperation will likely emerge from a combination of these factors, driven by a growing recognition of the urgent need to address pressing global challenges and build a more sustainable, equitable, and resilient future for all.

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No ideas here -- just descriptions. We need a better question. "What could humanity do to possibly provoke a shift of awareness?" How about that?

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Please tell how we could realistically make all of this this happen now. Please give steps and examples. Thank you!

ChatGPT

Realistically achieving the ambitious goals outlined in the previous essay requires a comprehensive and multi-faceted approach. Here are steps and examples to make it happen:

Political Will and Leadership: Political leaders need to prioritize environmental conservation, sustainable development, and global cooperation. This involves setting ambitious targets, enacting policies, and allocating resources to achieve them. For example, governments can commit to transitioning to renewable energy sources by providing incentives for renewable energy investment, implementing carbon pricing mechanisms, and phasing out fossil fuel subsidies.

International Cooperation and Agreements: Collaboration among nations is essential to address global challenges effectively. Countries should work together to negotiate and implement international agreements such as the Paris Agreement on climate change and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. This involves diplomatic efforts, negotiation skills, and compromise to find common ground and develop shared solutions.

Investment in Clean Technologies and Infrastructure: Governments, businesses, and investors need to prioritize investment in clean technologies and infrastructure. This includes funding research and development of renewable energy technologies, building sustainable transportation systems, and retrofitting existing infrastructure for energy efficiency. For example, subsidies and tax incentives can be provided to encourage the adoption of electric vehicles and the development of renewable energy projects.

Education and Awareness: Public awareness and understanding of environmental issues are crucial for driving behavioral change and supporting policy initiatives. Education campaigns, media outreach, and community engagement efforts can raise awareness about the importance of conservation, sustainable living, and climate action. For instance, schools can incorporate environmental education into their curricula, and organizations can organize community events to promote sustainable practices.

Community Empowerment and Participation: Engaging local communities in decision-making processes and empowering them to take action is essential for achieving sustainable development. This involves fostering partnerships, supporting grassroots initiatives, and ensuring inclusivity in decision-making. For example, community-led conservation projects can empower local communities to protect natural resources and biodiversity while improving their livelihoods.

Corporate Responsibility and Accountability: Businesses have a significant impact on the environment and society, and they must prioritize sustainability and corporate responsibility. This includes adopting sustainable business practices, reducing carbon emissions, and promoting ethical supply chains. For example, companies can set ambitious sustainability targets, invest in renewable energy, and implement circular economy principles to minimize waste and resource consumption.

Innovation and Research: Continued innovation and research are essential for developing new technologies and solutions to address complex environmental challenges. Governments, academic institutions, and private sector organizations should invest in research and development initiatives focused on sustainability, clean energy, and environmental conservation. For example, funding can be provided for research into breakthrough technologies such as carbon capture and storage, sustainable agriculture practices, and advanced renewable energy systems.

By implementing these steps and examples, we can realistically work towards achieving the goals of saving the world outlined in the essay. It requires collective action, political will, innovation, and collaboration at the local, national, and international levels. While the challenges ahead are significant, with dedication and commitment, we can create a sustainable and thriving future for generations to come.

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This was a fun read! Thanks Suzanne and Ram 💕🙏

I wanted to ask: are the entries to the competition going to be published here on Substack?

If yes, where and when?

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I didn't know if anyone would enter so there are no plans yet, but I am not the silent type, and with some good ones already in, since they could save the world they somehow, to be determined, will go back out!

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Oh, it's such a great idea, Suzanne. It's an excellent brief, which gets me/ us thinking in new and unexpected ways. I'm definitely going to enter! Working on my essay... (I'm a bit slower...)

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Ram has turned my head for sure regarding AI. I love his positive perspective and wouldn’t it be wonderful if we could go in this direction. I salute you Ram and Suzanne you found your game. This was an inspiring vision that touched my heart. Thank you Ram and Suzanne for your positive and passionate pursuit of the solutions we all want and need. Success is 99% persistence.

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I read this piece on AI with interest and a bit of a sinking heart. The AI models were all trained by taking the work of creatives - artists and writers, mostly - without any kind of compensation or acknowledgement. Are we ceding our humanity to machines to dream and imagine (then write and paint) for us? Would we, as thinking, feeling (and flawed) human beings really welcome a world where AI told us how to interact?

I do believe that technology can help us solve some of the problems we currently face, and AI may very well help us to search for and find solutions, but at the moment it's mostly threatening the livelihoods of the very creative people whose work was stolen by corporations in order to train their algorithms.

With nothing but respect for your friend Ram, where is he in this piece beyond the initial request? Is this his vision, or does it belong to the machine (or the corporation that programmed it)? Wouldn't you rather know what HE thinks? You'll find that literary journals and publications are starting to specify "Human-created content only" and I think, as a creative professional, that's the view I support.

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Ram was having fun with me. It's not a real entry. And new stuff is always uncharted territory. As I suggested, maybe AI wont be doom but will be a positive force, teaching us about consciousness. We grow by fits and starts, and here's big one to deal with!

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Absolutely new territory! I hope along with you that AI is a tremendous force for good in the long run, and let's keep an eye on it (and the companies who created it...?) in the meantime. :)

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I agree with you; Melissa

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Interesting essay, but I have to ask: is it fair for a response written by AI to win an essay contest??? Also, not surprising that AI would take a pro AI stance! Perhaps it's just biding its time, earning our trust until it unleashes its powers against us. After all, if you really want to end the destructive forces behind human-induced climate change, guess who you'd start with? :)

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It isn't in the competition. Just some fun old friends are having. Then again, maybe I'll devise a special award: Best fake!

Is there any award for answering your query? Could it be "us"?

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Interesting Question, Alison, glad you asked it

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If it were a real entry, then no it would not be fair

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Just a little taste of what lies ahead where we are going to get very discombobulated from what's AI and what's not!

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ps And I believe you are correct in knowing that a good enough question is as important as any answer, especially when trickster humour is involved!

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I’m in the tech-won’t-save-us camp. As Audrey Lorde said, The master’s tools can’t tear down the master’s house. It’s interesting to note that AI, being trained on existing writing (ie, the past), is incapable of the sort of innovative leaps of thinking that only humans are capable of, and that we most need now.

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Thank goodness it can't replace humans! What it is good at, it is very very good at, and that's a thank goodness, too.

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Check out ShaMama in the Boardroom where I am more encouraged to express my vision for the right to Be who we are in work and life.

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How does that relate to this post?

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I am referring to visioning the future and your beautiful essays.

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