As a lifelong Gaian, (or at least since 1981, when I first encountered Gregory Bateson and Lovelock’s Gaia theory, which transformed me from a “reform” environmentalist into an enthusiastic Gaian thinker), I agree with and heartily endorse everything that Daniel Wahl stands for. But as a(retired) professor of English at a community college, I faced one huge question: How can we make these lofty ideals relevant to the typical, struggling, working class twenty-something student? Inspiring, transformative ideas about regenerative culture mean little to those who need a job, or who shop at Walmart because it is the only place they can afford!

The answer I have found is to shift my attention from Gaian theory to Gaian praxis, starting where they are. And Gaian praxis is synonymous with Permaculture: growing gardens, growing community, and growing awareness — in that order!