We Are Stardust We are literally part of the universe, not separate from it

We have an anthropocentric tendency to see ourselves separate from the rest of the universe – as if we are somehow above or distinct from the natural world. Yet, when we examine things closely, we find that we are an intimate part of the universe’s fabric.

Our very bodies are made of stardust, forged in the hearts of ancient stars billions of years ago. The atoms that make up our cells and tissues were created in unimaginably violent supernovae scattered across the galaxies, only to coalesce on our small planet as part of us. We are literally part of the universe, not separate from it.

Furthermore, we rely entirely on the Earth’s ecosystems to sustain us – the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the food we eat all come from the living planet we inhabit. Without the Earth, there is no us. Our actions, in turn, affect the Earth and its other inhabitants, demonstrating that we are part of the planet’s fabric, not separate from it.

Indeed, no rigid boundaries demarcate where we end, and the rest of the universe begins. Like everything else, we are characters woven into the cosmic story. Realizing this profound connection with all of nature can inspire deep humility, awe, and care for our shared home.

Joni Mitchell’s lyrics remind us that we humans are genuinely stardust. Like the atoms in you and me, every atom in Joni’s body was born shortly after the Big Bang or later in a star. Pause and think about it for a moment as you listen to her beautiful song.

The crucial point to recognize is that humanity’s and the universe’s journeys are inherently interconnected and inseparable.

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•  We Are All Stardust Our intimate connection with the universe

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