Ricardo Tsakimp: A shaman's call to preserve life and nature in the face of the climate crisis 

Could you share some insights into your role? What unique qualities or skills do you bring to your work in the forests?  

My life's mission revolves around serving in the health field, employing ancestral techniques to offer guidance, direction, and teachings to people worldwide. I've had the privilege of traveling extensively, not only across many countries in Latin America but also venturing into Europe. I firmly believe in being born to serve rather than to destroy, as every human being, in my perspective, is born with a purpose to serve. 

How is climate change affecting you and your community? 

The impact is palpable for those of us living in and from the forests. For instance, 30 years ago, the conditions were vastly different. Back then, we could work all day in the sun without feeling the intense heat we experience today. Over the past three decades, I've noticed a remarkable increase of temperature, limiting our fieldwork to just two hours. Looking ahead, I fear that if the temperature rises even more, survival will become nearly impossible. This progression is a clear path towards the endangerment of mankind. The impending changes in the climate will manifest in various ways, affecting all living beings, including plants and animals. The disruption alters production cycles, leading to a potential shortage of food worldwide. Consider this: if our sustenance relies on the natural bounty of the Earth, currency and sophisticated weaponry become irrelevant. Money cannot be consumed, and weapons are useless when it comes to satisfying our basic needs. This is a critical message to the world. 

Which actions should humanity take to address the climate crisis? 

From my observations, the responsibility falls on everyone, yet not everyone actively supports the solutions. Only a few contribute, and indifference prevails among many. My perspective differs from the prevalent Western approach, which often involves extensive talking, thinking, and writing without substantial action. Instead, the Indigenous approach emphasizes both dialogue and swift action. The solution lies not in merely slowing down but initiating change. We need to focus on the younger generation, starting with children, providing them with a natural, environmental, and life-centered education. Attempting to influence teenagers may prove futile, as they are entrenched in their lifestyles. The elderly, too, may be resistant to change. Patience is key, waiting for time to bring about transformation. This, I believe, is the only viable path forward, the only solution at our disposal. 

Do you have any advice on how we can restore respect here in the Western world? 

Certainly, my approach involves introducing a new way or system of living, a method of reclaiming and reinforcing human values. The key lies in redirecting our focus towards children. To effect real change, we must start with the children since they are the bearers of our future. It becomes our responsibility as parents to nurture and educate them, instilling the human values that may have been lost. By teaching them from an early age what values they should uphold, we can shape a generation that grows with these principles. 

Unfortunately, the current trend of exposing children to technology, such as providing them with cell phones at a very young age, hinders their development. This, in my view, is a detriment to the child. I share these thoughts not for my sake but for those who wish to listen. I see my role as fulfilling a mission, providing knowledge, advice, and guidance. I find satisfaction in knowing that I've contributed to my work on this Earth, even though I am not eternal.  

Which are your greatest fears? 

Personally, fear holds little significance for me. It's a transient step in my journey. As time progresses, there comes a moment when I transition to another dimension, rendering fear inconsequential. Perhaps the concept of fear might have more weight if life extended to, say, 500 years. However, with our time on Earth being limited, there's an imperative to relish and fulfill a mission. Every living being, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant, has a purpose—a mission to fulfill. In my case, I recognize my role as one fulfilling a function during this specific time and space in life. Therefore, fear doesn't resonate with me; instead, it evokes compassion and pity. I feel a sense of sorrow for future generations who will endure more suffering than our current existence might fathom. It's disheartening to think that those who live now may not be concerned, as they won't witness the consequences in 10 or 20 years. However, their actions today contribute to the destruction of life, and it is future generations who will bear the unjust burden, having done nothing wrong. 

What makes you hopeful?  

My singular hope, as I often emphasize, lies with the children. There is no alternative. Monetary discussions, technological advancements—none of that matters. The responsibility for healing the damage caused by humanity rests solely with humans themselves. Not scientists, not technicians, but each individual. My hope is rooted in the belief that teaching children to tread a virtuous path, nurturing a positive horizon, is the key. It is essential to instill in them the values of caring and respecting, for without these foundations, chaos is inevitable. The consequence might be the ultimate extermination of humanity. The goal is to pave the way for another generation—one that is civilized, educated, disciplined, and understands the significance of caring for life.