Inhale the present, exhale the past.

Now, let your breath guide you back to the present moment, where peace and mindfulness reside.

Thank you for reading today’s edition of Grateful Gazette 😌

Here’s what to know for Tuesday:

• Whales are now considered legal persons in Polynesian waters

• 105-year-old engineer turned eclipse chaser inspires generations

• Nonprofit on a mission to end food insecurity

POLYNESIA AND MAORI COMMUNITIES GRANT PERSONHOOD TO WHALES

In a major move for whale rights, Indigenous leaders from New Zealand, Tahiti, and the Cook Islands have inked a groundbreaking treaty recognizing whales as legal persons.

For these Indigenous groups, whales aren't just some creatures swimming around—they're deeply woven into their history and spirituality.

Whales, or as the Māori call them, tohorā, have been guiding their ancestors across the vast Pacific Ocean since who knows when. And now, they're getting the VIP treatment.

The treaty, named He Whakaputanga Moana (which roughly translates to "declaration for the ocean"), was signed in a ceremony on Rarotonga, the largest of the Cook Islands.

We're talking leis, chiefs, and the Māori king himself—Tūheitia Potatau te Wherowhero VII.

Whales are the OG navigators of the Pacific, leading the way for island-hopping adventures and shaping Māori culture along the way.

Now, before you start picturing whales in courtrooms with tiny suits and briefcases, let's break down what this all means.

Recognizing whales as legal persons doesn't mean they're suddenly going to start paying taxes or voting. It means they get some serious protection and respect in the eyes of the law.

Climate change, ship strikes, and fishing gear entanglement are just a few of the dangers lurking in the ocean.

Conservationists have a plan. With new tech and a $100 million fund in their arsenal, they're ready to track, protect, and ensure these majestic creatures thrive.

So, what's next?

Well, it's all about spreading the word and convincing other world leaders to jump on board.

The Māori king and his crew aren't stopping here.

They're already chatting with officials from Tahiti, Tonga, and beyond.

Who knows, maybe one day we'll see whales sitting at the UN, demanding equal rights for all ocean dwellers. Now wouldn't that be a sight to sea?

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🗺 Billie Eilish and Mom Maggie Baird lead the charge for green music industry

⛪ Federal Judge rules against city: Church’s homeless meal services unrestricted

🌕 10- year-old eclipse enthusiast prepares for thirteenth eclipse

🚁 Annual marshmallow drop sends children into a sugary frenzy

Jérémy Chevallier and his team at Homegrown are on a mission to change thousands of fruit going to waste.

Well, it turns out there are fruit trees all over Phoenix begging to be picked. 

He's the brains behind Homegrown, a nonprofit on a mission to make sure no fruit gets left behind and no belly goes unfed.

With a team of green-thumbed volunteers and a whole lot of heart, Homegrown is turning urban food deserts into delicious oases, one backyard at a time.

And it's not just about fruit; Homegrown is turning Phoenix into a food-producing paradise with permaculture.

They're spreading the love with grants and resources, so everyone can join the food revolution.

Let's raise a toast (or a fruit salad) to making the world a tastier, healthier place, one backyard at a time!

Move over, world, because Queen Bey is back, and she's bringing the heat with her latest masterpiece, "Cowboy Carter"!

Beyoncé's new album makes you wanna dance, reflect, and everything in between. It’s a must-listen for anyone craving a musical adventure that's as bold and captivating as the artist herself.

Trust me, once you hit play on this album, you won't want to hit pause.

- Thank you for reading Grateful Gazette. Remember to breathe deeply to bring your mind back to your body 💜

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