I am Earth.  The abundant nurturer, provider, and maintainer.

          I am Earth.  I am the soils, the rocks, the metals of this planet which you call home.  I am its waters, its air, its mountains, and its valleys.

          I am Earth.  I am your mother.  I gave you life.  But more importantly, I gave you a chance.  I gave you a place to learn and grow.  A place to commune with your spirit and glory in the possibilities--the endless forms--which life can take.  A place to learn of Beauty and of Love.  I gave you a base in the cosmos from which to reach for the stars.

          I am Earth.  The foundation for your dreams.  And you--born of my love for the universe--are the child of the stars.  Remember me, love me, and honor me.  But your purpose is to transcend me.

          I am Earth.  I am mother watching her children fly away to greater glory.