Jon Nils Fogelberg, Checkin' Up!

Here is a summary of this blog post addressing the Gospel of Mary, the issue of man-made rules in Christianity, and the importance of not leaving the church over disagreements with traditions, but only if one rejects the core teachings of Jesus:

A few years ago, an exciting textual discovery reopened discussions about one of early Christianity’s most provocative texts – the ancient Gnostic Gospel of Mary. This gospel, believed to have been written in the 2nd century, is not included in the traditional Christian canon but offers a unique perspective on the life and teachings of Jesus. While still being analyzed by scholars, a purported new fragment may shed further light on this intriguing gospel, which portrays Mary Magdalene as someone to whom Jesus imparted profound spiritual wisdom.

In the accepted passages of the Gospel of Mary, we find the disciple Levi defending Mary’s words by stating: “The Savior knows her very well…let us be ashamed and acquire [Christ] for ourselves as He commanded us, and preach the gospel, not laying down any other rule or other law beyond what the Savior said.”

This idea that Jesus did not intend for his followers to create additional man-made rules, traditions, and hierarchies beyond his core teachings is a powerful reminder of how Christianity has developed over the centuries. By ‘man-made rules ‘, we refer to those rules and traditions that were not directly taught by Jesus but were added by human interpretation and institutional practices.

Based on the search results, various man-made rules, traditions, and doctrines have been added to Christianity over time, despite Jesus’ teachings focusing more on following him than adhering to an extensive set of rules and regulations. These include rules around gender roles, strict rules around sexual purity, dietary restrictions, requirements for salvation beyond faith in Christ, and complex hierarchies and church structures.

Some examples of man-made rules or traditions that appear to have been introduced into Christianity include:

1. Separation and rules around gender roles/interactions [2]

– Rules about men and women being separated during services or activities

– Restrictions on women’s roles in leadership or teaching based on interpretations of biblical passages

2. Strict rules around sexual purity and dating/courtship [2]

– Prohibitions on any physical contact before marriage

– Emphasizing an unrealistic standard of never having any sexual thoughts or desires

3. Dietary restrictions and ceremonial purity laws [2]

– Continuing to follow Old Testament purity rituals and food restrictions that Jesus did not reiterate under the new covenant

4. Requirements for salvation beyond faith in Christ [1][4][5]

– Adding works, sacraments, or adherence to church traditions as requirements for being “truly” saved

– Promoting the idea that salvation comes through human effort rather than by grace through faith

5. Complex hierarchies, titles, and church structures [3][5]

– Developing elaborate ecclesiastical hierarchies and offices not present in the early church

– Placing greater importance on human traditions and councils than on Scripture

The key point in [4] is that Jesus still needs to come to give a new set of rules and regulations to follow. Rather, he called people to follow him and his teachings, which fulfilled the spirit of the Old Testament law through love for God and neighbor. 

As [5] states, authentic Christianity is about a personal relationship with Christ by faith, not a man-made religious system of rules and rituals one must follow to earn salvation.

While some structures and practices can be helpful, the search results suggest that many extrabiblical rules and traditions have been introduced over time that can obscure the simplicity of following Christ, which the New Testament portrays. Jesus warned against this complex tradition-making in places like Mark 7:8 – “You have let go of the commands of God and are holding on to human traditions.”

So, in summary, while well-intentioned, numerous man-made rules around gender, sexuality, dietary laws, salvation requirements, and church hierarchies appear to have accumulated in Christianity over the centuries in tension with Jesus’ teachings focused on an authentic relationship with God through him rather than rigid rule-keeping.

 Reclaiming the Core Gospel 

However, the Gospel of Mary’s message is not necessarily to abandon the church altogether because of these accumulated human traditions. Jesus himself predicted the human tendency to make God’s commands void with man-made rules (Mark 7:8:” You have let go of the commands of God and are holding on to human traditions.”)

Rather, this gnostic gospel calls us to recenter our faith in Jesus’s core teachings—his message of radical love, humility, spiritual rebirth, and making disciples who spread the good news.

We are reminded that authentic Christianity is about a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, not a religious system of rules and rituals we follow to earn God’s favor. It’s about loving God and loving our neighbors as ourselves.

So, if you find yourself disillusioned by the structures, politics, or traditions of the institutional church, don’t discard your faith over those human baggage items. Instead, refocus your life on studying and applying Jesus’ revolutionary teachings in the Gospels. Prioritize cultivating an authentic relationship with God through Christ.

The Gospel of Mary encourages us to look past the human rules, hierarchies, and politics and fix our eyes on following the Savior himself. Remain firmly rooted in the church, but allow the words of Christ to prune away the accumulated traditions and recenter your faith in the core gospel message.

Only if you come to reject Christ’s divinity and his radical teachings on spiritual rebirth, unconditional love, and making disciples should you consider leaving the church. But if you believe Jesus is the Son of God who showed us the way to the Father, remain committed to the church while continually re-aligning your life with the heart of Jesus’ teachings.

The Gospel of Mary is a powerful call to reclaim Jesus’s simplicity and countercultural way without forsaking the church over disagreements with human traditions. As long as we hold firmly to the truth of who Jesus is and what he taught, we can be a force for recentering the church on the fundamentals of the gospel.

Citations:

[1] https://www.christianity.com/church/what-man-made-teachings-have-crept-their-way-into-the-church-part-2.html

[2] https://www.reddit.com/r/exchristian/comments/6ur7rm/some_weird_silly_rules_in_christianity/

[3] https://conciliarpost.com/theology-spirituality/there-are-no-rules-in-christianity/

[4] https://www.presby-newhall.org/theology/christianity-does-not-require-following-a-set-of-rules-it-requires-following-a-person/

[5] https://pursuingthetruth.org/christianity-is-not-complicated

Interview 2 with ace reporter Tim Tinker from Thinky Tanky News

Tim from Thinky Tanky News (Tim): “Thank you for this exclusive series of interviews, Meagan. Let’s get right to it. You’re campaigning as a Republican write-in candidate for POTUS. I got a lot of emails after our first interview concerning your remarks about affairs, and I quote, ‘Of course! I have experience in both domestic and foreign affairs. I just love affairs’  Could you clarify what this means?”

Meagan Mega-Maga (MMM): “Oh, Timmy! You are so cute. I know this is a trick question that they teach you in journalism school. Of course we both know the difference between a domestic affair and a foreign affair. A foreign affair always has an accent involved.”

Tim: “I see. Would you share your strategy for winning the vote at the upcoming Republican Convention? After all you did not participate in the primaries. What makes you think you can change the mind of the Trump delegates at the convention?”

MMM: “Oh,Timmy. Do you think I am so silly? We both know it is impossible to change the mind of a Trump supporter. Once they get Trump-noggin it’s all over. I have another plan.”

Tim: “I see. Would you like to share it?”

MMM: “Sure. Instead of a futile effort to change minds, I plan to change the convention rules.”

Tim: “I see. Clearly, I have underestimated you, Meagan Mega-Maga. That is a brilliant strategy. Would you care to share which rule or rules you plan to change at the convention?”

MMM: “Of course. Instead of having the delegates select the next Republican candidate, I will proposer a rule that allows the candidates themselves to duke it out. Whoever wins in a dart game will become the Republican nominee!”

Tim: “A…dart game? To decide the Republican nominee for President of the United States?”

MMM: “Exactly, Timmy! Think about it – what better way to prove one’s leadership mettle than by outperforming the competition in a rousing game of darts? The precision, the focus, the ability to hit a bullseye under immense pressure – it’s the perfect litmus test for the Oval Office.”

Tim: “But… that’s completely unprecedented! Not to mention, arguably undemocratic. How on earth do you plan to get the Republican National Committee to agree to such a radical proposal?”

MMM: “Oh ye of little faith, Timmy. You’re forgetting my golden rule – double everything! I’ll simply double the amount of refreshments provided at the convention. Free hot dogs, beer, and nachos for everyone! They’ll be so deliriously full and content, they’ll agree to anything I propose. It’s foolproof!”

Tim: “I…I don’t even know what to say. A presidential nominee decided by a darts tournament, fueled by an onslaught of junk food and alcohol? This is either the most brilliant or most absurd political strategy I’ve ever heard.”

MMM: “Why can’t it be both, Timmy? Embrace the absurdity! That’s what the Mega-Maga movement is all about. We’re not here to play by the rules – we’re here to rewrite them with a steady hand and a well-aimed dart!”

Tim: “Well, folks, you heard it here first. Meagan Mega-Maga, the unconventional candidate with unconventional methods. Who knows, maybe a darts tournament is exactly what American politics needs right now? Or maybe we’ve all gone completely mad. Either way, it’s sure to be a wild ride to the Republican National Convention. Stay tuned, and may the best dart-thrower win!”

Amish Living

Imagine a future world where climate change has wreaked havoc on the environment, fossil fuels are depleted, and electricity is a luxury few can afford. In this stark reality, Americans might find survival by turning to the time-honored practices of the Amish—a community known for its simplicity, self-sufficiency, and minimal reliance on modern technology. The transition to this lifestyle would profoundly reshape society, particularly through a mass exodus from urban centers to rural areas.

 The Impact of Transitioning to Amish Living

 1. Mass Exodus from Cities

The bustling cities, once the heart of economic activity and innovation, would become ghost towns. With the depletion of fossil fuels and the collapse of modern infrastructure, city life would no longer be sustainable. Urbanites would migrate to the countryside in search of arable land and sustainable living practices. This exodus would lead to abandoned skyscrapers, empty streets, and the gradual reclamation of urban areas by nature.

 2. Emphasis on Agriculture

With electricity and modern conveniences largely unavailable, people would return to agrarian lifestyles. Small-scale farming would become the norm, with communities growing their own food, raising livestock, and practicing crop rotation to maintain soil fertility. The knowledge and skills of the Amish in sustainable farming would be invaluable, guiding the broader population in these practices.

 3. Community and Self-Sufficiency

Survival would hinge on strong, tight-knit communities. The Amish tradition of mutual aid and cooperation would spread, with neighbors helping each other build homes, harvest crops, and care for animals. Barter systems would replace monetary transactions, and communal decision-making would ensure that resources are shared equitably.

 4. Handicrafts and Manual Labor

Without industrial manufacturing, handmade goods would become essential. Skills in carpentry, blacksmithing, weaving, and other crafts would be in high demand. People would learn to make their own clothes, tools, and household items, fostering a resurgence in artisanal craftsmanship and manual labor.

 5. Reduced Environmental Impact

This drastic shift would significantly reduce humanity’s environmental footprint. With less reliance on fossil fuels and industrial activities, carbon emissions would plummet. The use of natural materials and sustainable farming practices would help restore ecosystems and biodiversity.

 6. Cultural and Technological Shifts

Modern technology, entertainment, and conveniences would give way to simpler, more traditional ways of life. Education would focus on practical skills, and social interactions would become more personal and community-oriented. The absence of digital technology would lead to a renaissance of face-to-face communication, storytelling, and communal activities.

 7. Psychological and Social Adjustments

Adapting to this new way of life would be challenging. The transition would involve significant psychological and social adjustments as people learn to live without modern conveniences. However, the sense of community and shared purpose could lead to greater social cohesion and mental well-being.

In this future scenario, the lessons and lifestyle of the Amish could provide a blueprint for surviving and thriving in a world without modern energy sources. While the transition would be difficult, it could also offer a path to a more sustainable, connected, and resilient way of life.

The Satirical Scoop

Ah, Tim from Thinky Tanky News, purveyor of “fake truth” and sworn enemy of “fake news.” Your assignment to cover the political circus leading up to the 2024 election promises to be a wild ride, and your exclusive interview with the enigmatic Meagan Mega-Maga is sure to set the tone.

Meagan Mega-Maga, the self-proclaimed write-in candidate for the Republican party, has already found herself embroiled in controversy. The party itself has taken legal action against her, alleging trademark infringement – a bold move, considering her unapologetic stance on refusing to withdraw her candidacy.

One can only imagine the fireworks that will ensue during your interview. Will Meagan Mega-Maga double down on her defiance, or will she reveal a more conciliatory side? Perhaps she’ll unveil her platform, which, if it follows the trend of her moniker, is sure to be a spectacle of grandiose proportions.

Tune in tomorrow, dear readers, as Tim from Thinky Tanky News navigates the treacherous waters of political satire, where truth is stranger than fiction, and the only certainty is the uncertainty of what Meagan Mega-Maga will unleash upon the unsuspecting electorate.

Brace yourselves for an exclusive interview that promises to be equal parts entertaining, bewildering, and, above all, a testament to the enduring power of “fake truth” in the realm of American politics.

The year: 2230 AFF (After Fossil Fuel). Cave Schooling (Which replaced Home Schooling after the human survivors of human-induced destructive fossil fuel climate-altering warming gases were forced to live in caves).

Jon said “Grandpa, could you help me with my homework tonight? I have to write an essay on the outdoor sports they used to play in the olden days. One was called baseball and I have no idea how that was played or even how they could play that outside. Was there such a sport, Grandpa, and how did they play when it must have so hot?”

Grandpa smiled at Jon’s curiosity and enthusiasm for learning about the past. He replied, “Of course, Jon! I’d be happy to help you with your homework. Baseball was indeed a popular outdoor sport in the olden days, and it was played in various weather conditions, including hot weather. Let me explain how it was played.”

He began to describe the basics of baseball, painting a vivid picture of a time when people could enjoy sports in the open air:

“Baseball was a team sport played on a grassy field known as a baseball diamond. The objective was for one team to score more runs than the other. Each team had nine players who took turns playing offense and defense. The offensive team had a player called the pitcher who threw the ball towards a player from the opposing team called the batter. The batter’s goal was to hit the ball and then run around a series of four bases placed in a square formation.”

Grandpa paused to see if Jon was following along, and seeing his attentive expression, he continued, “Now, about playing in the heat. Baseball games took place during different seasons, including hot summer months. While the temperatures might have been uncomfortable at times, people still enjoyed playing and watching the sport. They made some adaptations to cope with the heat. Players wore special uniforms made of breathable materials, like cotton or synthetic fabrics, to stay cool. They also had hats or caps to protect themselves from the sun. Additionally, there were breaks during the game where players could rehydrate and rest in shaded areas or dugouts.”

He then added, “It’s important to remember, Jon, that the climate back then was quite different from what we experience today. They had seasons with milder temperatures, and extreme heat like we have now was not the norm. They could enjoy outdoor activities without the same challenges we face today.”

Jon nodded, taking in the information. He felt a sense of wonder and wished he could have experienced playing baseball like the children in the olden days. With newfound understanding, he thanked Grandpa for the explanation and felt excited to begin writing his essay.

Grandpa smiled and said, “You’re welcome, Jon. I’m glad I could help. Remember, learning about the past helps us appreciate what we have today and inspires us to create a better future. Now, let’s get started on that essay!”

“Heal the Earth, Secure Our Future: Elect Climate Champions in 2024”

Introduction:

“According to recent studies, the top 1% of Americans hold more wealth than the bottom 90% combined.” This stark statistic underscores the growing problem of wealth inequality in the United States. The American Dream promises equal opportunities for success and financial stability, but this ideal still needs to be put within reach for many working families. Recent estimates suggest that 10-15% of American working families live day to day, struggling to meet their basic needs, while another 20-25% live week to week, facing financial difficulties if they miss a single paycheck. This economic insecurity affects individual families and has far-reaching consequences for society. As if this wealth gap weren’t concerning enough, the looming threats of climate change and the eventual depletion of fossil fuels add another layer of complexity to the challenges faced by America’s poorest segments.

The Current State of Wealth Inequality:

Over the past few decades, the wealth gap in America has widened significantly. A 2021 report by the Federal Reserve found that the top 1% of households held nearly 32% of the nation’s wealth, while the bottom 50% held just 2%. This concentration of wealth has been exacerbated by factors such as tax policies favoring the wealthy, stagnant wages for low and middle-income workers, and rising costs of education, housing, childcare, and healthcare.

The Impact on Working Families:

The consequences of wealth inequality are most acutely felt by working families living day to day or week to week. These families face constant financial stress and insecurity, leading to reduced consumer spending and slower economic growth. A 2019 report by the Federal Reserve found that nearly 40% of American adults would struggle to cover an unexpected $400 expense. This financial instability also takes a toll on mental and physical health, straining our healthcare system and social services.

The Double Threat of Climate Change and Fossil Fuel Depletion:

As if the challenges posed by wealth inequality weren’t enough, America’s poorest segments face an additional threat from climate change and the eventual depletion of fossil fuels. As the world transitions away from fossil fuels, the energy cost will likely increase, placing a disproportionate burden on low-income households.

A 2016 American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy study found that low-income households spend a larger percentage of their income on energy costs than higher-income households. As energy prices rise due to the depletion of fossil fuels and the costs associated with transitioning to renewable energy sources, low-income families will face even greater financial strain.

Moreover, the impacts of climate change, such as more frequent and severe natural disasters, will also disproportionately affect low-income communities. These communities often lack the resources and infrastructure to prepare for and recover from climate-related events, leaving them more vulnerable to displacement, job loss, and health issues.

Ten Strategies for Change:

To address the dual challenges of wealth inequality and the climate crisis, we must adopt a comprehensive approach that prioritizes the needs of America’s most vulnerable communities. Here are ten strategies to consider:

1. Progressive taxation: Reform the tax system to ensure the wealthy pay their fair share while reducing the tax burden on low and middle-income families.

2. Raise the minimum wage: Ensure that all workers earn a living wage that allows them to meet their basic needs and support their families.

3. Invest in education: Provide equal access to quality education, from early childhood through higher education, to promote upward mobility and reduce income inequality.

4. Strengthen labor unions: Support the formation and growth of unions to give workers a stronger voice in negotiating fair wages, benefits, and working conditions.

5. Expand affordable housing: Invest in creating and maintaining affordable housing options to reduce the financial burden on working families.

6. Provide universal healthcare: Implement a healthcare system that ensures all Americans have access to quality, affordable care, reducing the financial strain of medical expenses.

7. Promote employee ownership: Encourage the growth of employee stock ownership plans (ESOPs) and cooperatives to give workers a stake in their companies’ success.

8. Regulate financial markets: Implement stricter regulations on financial institutions to prevent predatory lending practices and protect consumers.

9. Support small businesses: Provide resources and incentives for small business growth and development, creating more opportunities for entrepreneurship and local economic growth.

10. Foster community development: Invest in programs supporting revitalizing underserved communities, promoting economic growth, and reducing inequality.

Addressing the Climate Crisis:

In addition to these strategies, we must take decisive action to address the climate crisis and its disproportionate impact on low-income communities. This includes:

1. Investing in renewable energy: Provide incentives and support for developing and adopting clean energy technologies, such as solar and wind power, to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels.

2. Improving energy efficiency: Implement programs to help low-income households upgrade to more energy-efficient appliances, heating and cooling systems, and insulation, reducing their energy costs and carbon footprint.

3. Building climate resilience: Invest in infrastructure and community-based initiatives that help low-income communities prepare for and adapt to the impacts of climate change, such as extreme weather events and sea-level rise.

4. Promoting green jobs: Support the creation of well-paying jobs in the clean energy sector, prioritizing employment opportunities for low-income and marginalized communities.

5. Ensuring a just transition: Develop policies and programs that support workers and communities impacted by the transition away from fossil fuels, providing training, job placement, and financial assistance to help them adapt to the new energy economy.

The Path Forward:

Addressing the intertwined challenges of wealth inequality and the climate crisis will require a bold, multi-faceted approach that prioritizes the needs of America’s most vulnerable communities. By implementing the abovementioned strategies, we can bridge the wealth gap, create a more sustainable and resilient economy, and ensure that the benefits of the transition to a clean energy future are shared equitably.

The cost of inaction is too high. As wealth inequality continues to grow and the impacts of climate change become more severe, the stability and well-being of our society are at risk. A 2018 report by the World Bank estimated that climate change could push an additional 100 million people into poverty globally by 2030 if we fail to take decisive action. However, it is important to note that while this particular statistic is global in scope, the United States is not immune to the impacts of climate change and wealth inequality. Many studies have shown that low-income communities and communities of color in the U.S. are disproportionately affected by climate change and environmental degradation. For example, a 2017 study by the University of California, Berkeley found that low-income communities and communities of color in the U.S. are more likely to live in areas with higher levels of air pollution, putting them at greater risk for health problems associated with poor air quality. Similarly, a 2019 report by the U.S. Government Accountability Office found that climate change is expected to disproportionately impact low-income communities in the U.S., as these communities are more vulnerable to extreme weather events and have fewer resources to adapt to changing conditions.

We must unite and build an America that works for everyone while ensuring a sustainable and livable planet for future generations. By investing in our communities, supporting working families, and taking bold action to address the climate crisis, we can create a society where the American Dream is within reach for all and where our economy and environment can thrive together. The path forward may be challenging, but we can build a better future for all Americans with determination and a commitment to justice and sustainability.

“Heal the Earth, Secure Our Future: Elect Climate Champions in 2024”

We are children of the fossil fuel age, and it’s undisputable that we owe much of our progress and prosperity to the advances made possible by fossil fuels. Industrialization, technological innovation, and economic growth have all been fueled—quite literally—by coal, oil, and natural gas. Without these energy sources, many of the comforts and conveniences of modern life might not exist.

But with this legacy comes a profound responsibility. We now know that the path we’ve traveled has come at a great environmental cost. The continued use of fossil fuels at current rates poses an imminent threat to our planet, potentially causing irreparable damage for thousands of years, if not forever. Climate change, driven by greenhouse gas emissions, is an urgent existential threat that demands our immediate attention.

The dilemma we face is clear: we need energy to live, and future generations will need energy to live. While we might survive in a climate-adverse environment for a while (albeit with great difficulty and suffering), the real crisis will come when fossil fuels run out. Without a sustainable plan, we risk a future where there won’t be enough renewable energy capacity to replace the energy we currently derive from fossil fuels, leading to energy shortages and potential societal collapse.

So, what’s the plan? We need our leaders to step up and address this problem now. We have dilly-dallied for too long, and 2024 is a crucial election year for addressing our energy future. If we elect an administration that dismisses climate change and energy sustainability as a hoax, we are jeopardizing our future in America. Other nations, like France, which have invested in nuclear power, will outpace us, and we will be left struggling with energy rationing and the hardships that come with it. Just ask the war-torn nations what living without reliable power is like.

We must embrace a diverse energy strategy that includes renewable sources like solar, wind, hydro, and nuclear power. Investing in research and development for energy storage solutions and grid modernization is imperative. Transitioning away from fossil fuels will not be easy, but it’s necessary for the survival and prosperity of future generations.

Let’s honor the legacy of the fossil fuel age not by clinging to it but by recognizing its limitations and moving forward with innovative solutions. Our future depends on it.

“Heal the Earth, Secure Our Future: Elect Climate Champions in 2024”

In a time not so distant, a couple found themselves delayed on their journey to a much-anticipated gathering. A family emergency had arisen, causing their tardiness, yet their hearts remained eager to join the festivities, for they knew their hosts to be masters of merriment.

As they made their way, visions of a warm fire, tantalizing aromas, and the laughter of friends danced in their minds. They imagined the succulent dishes and fine wines that awaited, promising to sate their hunger and thirst, while the crackling flames would chase away the chill that had settled upon them.

Unbeknownst to the couple, the other guests, aware of their impending arrival, could scarcely resist the tempting hospitality laid before them. “These appetizers are divine,” they exclaimed, devouring every morsel until not a crumb remained.

As the entrees were served, their allure proved too great to resist. “So delectable,” they cried, savoring each bite until the platters stood bare. They reasoned, “Surely, our late companions will find sustenance along the way.”

And so it was with the wine, each glass emptied in revelry, leaving not a drop to quench the thirst of those yet to arrive.

As the evening drew to a close, the fire that had once burned bright and welcoming began to wane. With bellies full and spirits high, the guests retreated indoors, leaving the embers to fade into ash.

At last, the couple arrived, their anticipation turning to dismay as they surveyed the scene. “Why did you consume all the food and drink all the wine?” they cried. “And why did you allow the fire to extinguish, leaving us with naught but crumbs and cinders?”

At that moment, a whisper echoed through the ages, warning future generations: “Beware the temptation of excess, for those who come after may find themselves bereft of sustenance, warmth, and the comforts we so carelessly squandered.”

So, the parable of the consumed feast reminds us to cherish and preserve our world’s bounties, lest we leave a legacy of scarcity and deprivation for those who follow in our footsteps.

“Heal the Earth, Secure Our Future: Elect Climate Champions in 2024”

Source: https://www.co2.earth/daily-co2

The relentless burning of fossil fuels has unleashed a torrent of greenhouse gases into our atmosphere, altering the delicate balance that sustains life on Earth. Each day, a staggering 110 million tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) are spewed into the air, a sobering testament to our insatiable appetite for energy.

This unabated emission has propelled atmospheric CO2 levels to unprecedented heights, surpassing 420 parts per million (ppm), a stark contrast to the pre-industrial era’s 280 ppm. Consequently, the planet’s average surface temperature has risen by approximately 1.1°C (2°F) since the late 19th century, ushering in a cascade of environmental catastrophes.

If we persist on this perilous path, clinging to fossil fuels despite the growing adoption of renewables, the consequences will be catastrophic. Climate models project a harrowing 2.7°C (4.9°F) to 3.7°C (6.7°F) increase in global temperatures by the end of this century, unleashing a deluge of extreme weather events, rising sea levels, and irreversible ecosystem disruptions.

As the 2024 election year approaches, the urgency to address this crisis cannot be overstated. We stand at a crossroads, with the power to chart a new course towards a sustainable future or succumb to the scorching consequences of inaction.