Sustainability Discussion 2011

Relating to your neighbor

I recently re-visited Fallingwater, arguably Frank Lloyd Wright’s most famous design, which is located about 15 miles from my family’s farm in Western Pennsylvania. As those of you who have visited this landmark understand, the house is renowned for its embrace of the surrounding landscape. From the waterfall that runs under the structure, to the walls of windows opening out to the woodlands of Bear Run, to the many cantilevered terraces from which every interior room has access. Wright’s design pushes the inhabitants towards the outside by using dark, narrow corridors and stairwells, as well as small interior rooms. This design creates an almost subconscious desire to move towards the outside light. Part of his theory about organic architecture is to reconnect humans to their natural surroundings, so that they would be in relationship with nature. Buildings should not separate us from the life all around us. There is a theological lesson in this as well: We need to step outside our own shelters to relate to nature—including other humans—around us.

In last week’s Gospel from Matthew, Jesus gave his disciples several parables about the Kingdom of God. One that illustrates the point about not separating ourselves from God (and others) is the one about the man who discovers the treasure hidden in a field then sells all his possessions to buy that field. The parable is about letting go of all the things that keep us from living the way God intends us to live. We need to rid ourselves of those things and habits that turn our energy and resources away from relating to God and, therefore, our neighbors.

So, how do we do that? One action is to stop focusing so much time and attention to our houses and other possessions. (If you don’t live in a Wright-designed house; you may need to force yourself outside.) We spend so much time on taking care of everything we own that we neglect how other people in the community are faring. “Love your neighbor as yourself” is often lost in our modern world, yet there are ways we can begin to change our focus.

Over the rest of the summer, I want each of you to consider this: Rather than buying something—whether it’s a vacation souvenir, or a new piece of clothing, or a new book—take that money and spend it on an experience with someone you love, or with someone you would like to know better. Go to a museum, watch a baseball game, or visit a town or city you have always wanted to see. Better yet, donate those funds to a cause you care about and do something that does not cost anything—take a walk in a park, go bike riding or hiking, stroll through an interesting neighborhood. Just invite a companion to join you.

Second, pick one possession that you own and give it to someone that you care about. You get extra points if you part with a family heirloom (might be time to pass it down to the next generation!) or a personal treasure. If you are truly dedicated to letting go of your stuff, give it to a charity that takes such donations. However, do not replace those items with anything! If you need something, ask a friend or neighbor if you can borrow it instead. (Besides, it is a great way to start a conversation.)

Before the end of the summer, I would like you to share your experiences in spending time with others rather than acquiring new possessions. Will any of those experiences feel like the Kingdom of God? Please let me know.

In peace,
Katie Ong-Landini

 

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