Green Aura There are signs everywhere in our culture of people focusing more on what is sustainable and what is truly important — including some decisions that are clearly life-changing, as well as others that at a cursory glance may seem inconsequential, but add up to Earth-changing trends. For instance, more professionals nowadays are leaving corporate jobs — for whatever reason — to spend more time with their families and to develop home-based businesses to sustain those families. Secondly, eco-conscious consumers are opting for reusable packaging and carry gear. These trends and other related ones came together in the life of Divya Mahajan, when she left her position as a financial advisor at a national bank, in order to be more accessible to her children, to gain greater control of her own time, and to pursue her entrepreneurial interests. Specifically, she began designing reusable bags made from biodegradable materials, with the idea that they would be unique as well as affordable — a rare combination. In 2006, she realized her goal when her new business, Green Aura, opened up online, and began offering a variety of environmentally friendly bags made of natural fibers, such as canvas and jute. These include handbags, lunch bags, gift/wine bags, and hand-painted bags, as well as tote bags for shopping and other carrying needs. All of these items are handcrafted by villagers in India, and most of the screen-printing and handwork is done by women, which empowers them financially and helps their families. Green Aura is another welcome sign that people are gradually learning that "We do not inherit the Earth from our parents; we borrow it from our children."