We shall not comply

When advertisers exhort us to drive ever larger fast cars –

We shall not comply.

When fashion houses entreat us to buy clothes for the beach and more for barbecue, clothes for lounging and more for reclining – 

We shall not comply.

When top chefs urge us to buy tropical fruits and exotic grains, to eat strawberries in January and avocados in September –

We shall not comply.

When your companies tout trips to the Tropics, all flights included, 
or city breaks by air –

We shall not comply.

When weekend magazines promote this season’s new colour schemes wall paper and furnishing, out with the old and in with the new –

We shall not comply.

When tech industries unveil this year’s new phone, the upgraded tablet and irreparable head sets –

We shall not comply.

When governments tell us  that coal mines are good and ask for our vote –

We shall not comply.

When trend setters define the next must-have accessory and deride what was last season’s in thing – 

We shall not comply.

When politicians tell us national needs are all important and foreigners must wait – 

We shall not comply.

Holy God, 

keep awake in us a true love for the earth, 

its flora and fauna, our brothers and sisters.

Strengthen our resolve to live within our means, 

to act with compassion, and following your will –

We shall COMPLY!