Food for the Ark: Chapter Five

The Gathering

Mindful Eating for Weight Control

“LJ, I see the other arks,” shouted Annie. She ran down the stairs from the upper deck. “It looks like there are about five heading our way.”

LJ looked through the telescope in the navigation room. “Yes, I see, and there are more behind them.”

The couple had not seen other survivors for six months. This gathering is the fourth since the end of earth. Due to the destruction of the planet because of global warming, they and their fellow environmentalists live on arks. The massive boats are now home to all that is left of humanity and earth’s biodiversity.

The arks move into a close circle so bridges can link them. The suspensions are made by the bamboo ark, whose sole purpose is to grow bamboo for all construction needs. In the middle of the circle is the biggest ark of all, Destiny. It functions as the governing, medical, and spiritual center. It also hosts the Gathering. It takes most of the day for the bridges to be put in place. By early evening, they are, and the visiting begins. The happiness at seeing one another is palpable. Ark life is intense, grueling, and lonely. The deep sadness at earth’s loss is a constant emotion that many experience so trips to Destiny are common. It is the refuge center, a place of comfort and…