What does it take to live well? We have a chance to find out. That is the good news of this economic crisis.

In this mind-boggling recession/depression, our human way of life is changing, all over the world. This shake up has our full attention. Facing loss of wealth and things we are used to is scary, but the declining economy is telling us that much more awareness is badly needed. Our material fixations have not been good life supports, and we must change.

This is a perfect time to figure out what is actually necessary to live well. It is a perfect time to emphasize the basics -- grow a garden, conserve energy, hone down to the clarity of living an uncluttered life. This is the time to be smart and practical. This is a great time for learning.

Every Child needs clean water and fresh food, a safe and loving home, and an honest education to learn how to live well:

It is enough to eat, sleep, and live in modest accommodations.
It is enough to speak rich language - naturally, through conversation.
It is enough to learn to read and write, and to draw.
It is enough to walk, ride a bike, and go on a hike.
It is enough to sing, play instruments, and dance.
It is enough to laugh and cry, and to write poetry.
It is enough to master the skills of basic arithmetic.
It is enough to follow the love of inquiry into discovery and adventure in nature, science, music and art, mathematics, and true self-awareness.

It is enough to be honest and kind. It is enough to be real.

Waking up is the true emergency.