Another Week Beyond – 2150

December 10, 2021

Dear friends,

“Everyone who visits my home says that I am very warm because of my hospitality. But I also experience another kind of warmth. In the 11 years I have lived in this rental flat, the heat has gotten more and more unbearable. And it affects us every day,” Marlina, a 43-year-old mother of five was speaking at the SG Climate Rally 2021 last Sunday. “The People in Crisis” was a theme she identified with, and she wanted to let others know how climate change has affected those in her neighbourhood. She spoke about a friend whose eczema acted up where it was too warm and how she would spray water on her walls on a hot day. She also related how it was difficult keeping out the rain when it stormed.

It was heartening to see and hear Marlina speaking with so much conviction and confidence. It seems like the opportunity to be heard and understood is a very empowering experience. Another member who presented at the rally was Ash, a 20-year-old who identifies himself as a rapper. and he reflected that the stress resulting from challenging living conditions caused by climate change affects the way he would relate to others, and poor relationships lead to poor mental health. Hence, he penned an original song to illustrate the mental stress experienced by the youth he encounters.

I thought I would just share his opening and closing lines to convey his message:

This track is dedicated to the people who are battling with depression

Trapped in their mind like a prison

So listen up to what I’m about to say

Positivity is the key

For your mind to be free

Feel my energy

Through my lyrical ability

Peace, love, and positivity

Should be our main policy

We believe that social issues are not just problems to be eradicated but opportunities for people to rally toward a common good. While our organisation focusses on poverty related issues, the climate crisis is not something we can be oblivious to and we are glad that despite their personal challenges, 2 of our members decided that they could contribute to an existential crisis that affects us all.

Wishing you good health and peace of mind.

Sincerely,

Gerard

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