Living in Transition

All of us are impacted by the "long emergency" as we face the challenges of finite natural resources, economic instability, and climate change. How can we live with this awareness without feeling overwhelmed? How can we find resilience and courage? In this session, we will share what is in our hearts about the state of our planet. Drawing on the work of Joanna Macy, we'll explore ways to overcome psychic numbing and release energy for creative action.

As a way to enter into the challenges of the "long emergency," participants will hear a brief introduction about the Transition Towns concept that spurred ReSkilling efforts in Ann Arbor. Additionally, participants will learn some basic ideas behind the Transition Movement, and experience the power of simple paired conversations.

Laura Smith & Jeanne Mackey

Laura is a commercial interior designer, novice gardener, and generally
concerned citizen. She is currently pursuing a PhD in Architecture and Environmental Psychology at the University of Michigan, and has been volunteering on the initiating team of Transition Ann Arbor since May 2009.

Jeanne is a co-founder of Transition Ann Arbor, and recently created a program of original stories and songs on the occasion of turning 60.