"ما چقدر خود مهم هستیم. حالا همه می‌خواهند چیزی را نجات دهند. "درختان را نجات دهید، زنبورها را نجات دهید، نهنگ‌ها را نجات دهید، حلزون‌ها را نجات دهید." و بزرگترین تکبر از همه: نجات سیاره. نجات سیاره؟ ما هنوز نمی‌دانیم چطور از خودمان مراقبت کنیم. ما می‌خواهی"

The core idea here is about our tendency to see ourselves as saviors of the Earth, while in reality, we’re still grappling with our own problems. It’s a critique of human arrogance—thinking we can fix everything around us when we haven’t mastered self-care and self-awareness.

This perspective comes from George Carlin, a comedian known for his sharp, thought-provoking humor. Carlin often used his platform to challenge societal norms and provoke critical thinking. This particular quote reflects his skepticism about environmental efforts in the face of human shortcomings. When Carlin delivered this, he was urging people to look inward before trying to "save" the world. It’s a call to humility and self-improvement.

Picture this: a well-meaning person decides to volunteer for an environmental clean-up project. They spend hours picking up trash, planting trees, and advocating for recycling. But at home, their life is a mess—they ignore their health, relationships, and personal responsibilities. Their efforts, while noble, are somewhat hypocritical because they’re avoiding their own issues. They’re wearing themselves thin trying to fix external problems without addressing the internal ones.

Here’s some advice on applying this wisdom: start with yourself. Before taking on the world’s problems, ensure you’re taking care of your own. It’s like the oxygen mask rule on airplanes—secure your mask before helping others. This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t care about the planet or engage in activism, but it’s about balance. Prioritize self-care, mental health, and personal growth. Be the best version of yourself, and your positive influence will naturally extend to your surroundings.

Let’s dive into a relatable scenario. Imagine Sarah, a passionate environmentalist. She’s constantly involved in campaigns, attending protests, and spreading awareness about climate change. But Sarah is also stressed out, barely sleeps, and feels disconnected from her friends and family. Despite her efforts, she feels unfulfilled and burnt out.

One day, Sarah confides in her friend, Jenna. Jenna listens patiently and then says, “Sarah, you’re amazing with all you do for the planet. But when was the last time you took a break for yourself? Maybe it’s time you saved ‘Sarah’ first.”

Sarah realizes Jenna is right. She takes a step back, focuses on her mental and physical health, and reconnects with her loved ones. After some time, she feels more energized and centered. When she returns to her environmental work, she’s more effective and balanced. Her advocacy is now driven by genuine well-being rather than escapism.

Think about that. By taking care of herself, Sarah could contribute even more to her cause without sacrificing her own happiness. It’s a win-win.

So, remember, it’s not about abandoning your passions or environmental efforts. It’s about recognizing that real change starts within. Take care of yourself, and the ripple effect of your well-being will naturally enhance your ability to contribute positively to the world. In the end, saving the planet and saving ourselves are intertwined journeys.