Nature has never been static. It is not a museum or a pristine, unchanging landscape frozen in time. Like us, ecosystems evolve, adapt, and transform. Studies have shown that even the most biodiverse ecosystems undergo constant change—in fact, disturbances such as fires and floods can actually promote biodiversity.  Over thousands of years, Indigenous peoples have observed, nurtured, and loved these lands with deep understanding and reverence. They can teach us how to embrace change and rewild ourselves—if only we choose to listen. When discussing non-native plants, it is essential to understand classifications and ecological impacts.  Non-native species are generally defined as those that were not part of the plant palette in functioning ecosystems before colonization. Invasive species, however, represent a more specific category: species introduced by humans that reproduce and spread at a rate far exceeding native species.This overpopulation often results in the devastation of complex ecosystems that evolved over millennia, leading to the extinction of native species and widespread ecological damage.  Many people view non-native plants as invaders, something to be eradicated for the sake of purity. Yet Indigenous peoples, such as the Kumeyaay, have long used these plants for food and medicine, weaving them into the ecosystem in a balanced way.  The Kumeyaay’s knowledge is supported by research that shows how some non-native species can contribute to ecosystem resilience. They understood that life isn’t about making nature perfect—it’s about seeing and honoring the balance that must occur. However, invasive species are a different matter entirely. Because of their ability to rapidly reproduce and dominate ecosystems, invasive species disrupt food webs, reduce biodiversity, and threaten native plants and animals.  Research shows that invasive plants, such as Arundo donax (giant reed) and Tamarix spp. (salt cedar), alter water availability and soil composition, further stressing native species already impacted by climate change. Left unchecked, these species can lead to ecosystem collapse. Indigenous leaders, with their deep understanding of local ecosystems and thousands of years of observation, know how best to manage invasive plants.  Traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) offers sustainable solutions rooted in reciprocity and respect for nature. Unlike some modern eradication efforts, which can involve harmful chemical treatments or broad-scale habitat destruction, Indigenous practices focus on restoring balance and ensuring the land can heal. Research has shown that Indigenous-led restoration efforts are often more effective at controlling invasive species and restoring biodiversity than conventional methods.  Listening to and partnering with Indigenous leaders is essential if we want to mitigate the harm caused by invasive plants and allow ecosystems to thrive. Modern conservation practices often aim to return landscapes to some imagined state of perfection. However, ecosystems are not meant to stay the same forever. Scientific studies on succession—the natural process of change in plant and animal communities over time—demonstrate that nature evolves through cycles.  Just as you are not the same person you were as a baby, nature transforms. The Kumeyaay have observed what works and what doesn’t for thousands of years. Their knowledge, passed down through generations, surpasses any academic credential or scientific theory that comes without lived experience. We must listen to them with open hearts and minds. When we extract from nature—pulling a plant from the earth, harvesting an apple, or killing an animal—we must honor that life. To acknowledge this interconnectedness is to love and respect life itself.  Ecologists have documented how Indigenous practices of sustainable harvesting lead to healthier ecosystems, as they ensure resources are replenished. When we fail to honor the taking, we begin to hate the part of ourselves that must take to survive. This self-loathing then spreads outward. We start to despise others, leading to division and violence. The cycle of hate begins when we forget our connection to the sacredness of life. Yet there is no inherent flaw in us or in nature.  What I truly want is peace, love, and healing. Life’s cycles—even extinction and devastation—create space for new growth and diversity. Scientists have shown that mass extinctions throughout history paved the way for new life forms to emerge. Think of the ice ages or how life began as single-celled organisms.  Every ending is a doorway to something new. The balance may shift temporarily, but life finds its way back to harmony. I hold a deep, unshakable knowing that everything will be okay. The law of conservation of energy tells us that energy can never be created or destroyed—it only changes form. We are always here, always part of the cycle, always moving through the four directions. There is nothing to fear when we trust the flow of life. This trust doesn’t mean inaction—it means acting with love, faith, and reverence for the gift of life. We can rest in the certainty that life is sacred and resilient. But we also need to ensure that this balance happens in love and trust.  Listening to those who have lived in harmony with the land for thousands of years can ease our collective suffering. Our Indigenous siblings, who know and love this land deeply, have so much to teach us. Research consistently shows that Indigenous-managed lands have higher biodiversity and better ecosystem health than many protected areas managed solely by government agencies. They hold the wisdom of healing, balance, and thriving in the face of change.  This is what I’m fighting for—an end to unnecessary suffering and a life where we can enjoy the sacred gift of existence while we have it. By embracing change, honoring all life, and listening to those who have nurtured this earth for millennia, we can heal ourselves and the world around us. Let’s trust life and trust each other. In doing so, we may finally discover peace and joy in this beautiful, ever-changing world. This is what I believe. My name is Riziki. My name means blessing, gift, present. My mom is white my dad is black from Tanzania and I’ve been shaped by a colonized world that ignores me. I have deep love for the earth and for everyone in it and I believe community is about loving hard and not forgetting to see the joy and beauty in life while we fight for our freedom. That is why I believe in you! These are teachings I have learned from many different indigenous nations.The Kumeyaay nation, the Ute nation, the Yuhkaaviatam nation, the Navajo nation. I hope to learn more everyday! These are not my words they are yours and I value all the amazing teachings you have.

Land back ❤️

LOVE the work you do!! ❤️❤️❤️

For Matayuum 💗 thank you for ALL you do!

Very excited to support this important work!