Scientists say that a cold and wet Mars could have supported life.
 In a study published this week in the journal “Nature,” scientists showed how water may have formed on the planet despite below-freezing temperatures. The research indicates that the surrounding minerals in the environment could facilitate life-sustaining water in its liquid form. A related study published in the journal “Science” further revealed that water was responsible for shaping the planet’s surface at the site of the Victoria Crater that was extensively explored by the Mars Opportunity Rover.

We thank all the scientists who have collaborated to bring us more exciting information about our neighboring planet. Our prayers that continued insights into Mars’ history may help us care more wisely for our Earth.

Through her inner contact and insight, Supreme Master Ching Hai has shared some of the fascinating history of Mars, which she mentioned has undergone a planetary disaster caused by climate change conditions similar to our own. In a January 2009 videoconference with Supreme Master Television staff in California, USA, Supreme Master Ching Hai described those who survived and the conditions there.


Videoconference with Supreme Master Ching Hai
with Supreme Master Television staff California, USA January 18, 2009

Supreme Master Ching Hai: There were some pockets of less polluted area in Mars at that time, less poisonous. They survived and they started picking up pieces. And then they go into the underground caves and they dig tunnels and live in there. They found the underground water, river, and they live Q (f): Wow. nearby. Most of the people live near the underground water.

And therefore, these people survived, and they had learned their lesson and they had written down to all their descendants to strictly follow spiritual method and the virtuous way of life. They have written all the destruction, all the tragedies, all the suffering, all the agonies of the planet’s people so that their children never forget.

It’s a very expensive lesson and very painful one, very painful. But at least they learned.

“Super Sherpa” sends SOS message from top of Mt. Everest.
Forty-nine year old mountaineer, Mr. Apa Sherpa of Nepal scaled the world’s tallest peak for the 19th time this Thursday, thus setting a new record for the most successful attempts. While at the summit, the expert climber unfurled a banner that read, "Stop Climate Change, Let the Himalayas Live!" In an interview prior to the climb, Mr. Sherpa stated “This is my 19th climb to the top of the world. During the last 18 ascents, I have seen a measurable difference... The disastrous impacts of climate change are visible in the Everest region. It is a warning to mankind before it reaches a tipping point."

Mr. Apa Sherpa, our admiration for your latest achievement and our deep appreciation for your message from the summit for all of us to act now in halting climate change.

Loss of elephants’ lives due to Mali drought.
Despite their adaptation to the harsh climate of the western African country, extreme dry conditions over time have left a maximum of 450 desert elephants who are currently struggling to survive. Their normal 700-kilometer migration route has also been extended in their search for water, with the animal welfare organization Save the Elephants reporting that nine have already been found perished, some in wells where they had been trying to drink.

We shed tears for the dire situation of the beautiful elephants of Mali, as we pray for the blessing of water to come to the region. May such heart-rending situations be alleviated through our gentler regard of all beings on the planet.