we don't grow most of what we eat, but i am grateful that we can grow some of it. the time and effort that goes into our garden opens up a whole new appreciation for rain and sun. rainy days are no longer mere inconveniences. i am extremely grateful for them. compost is an incredible process. peels and pits, leaves and sticks turn into the richest soil. nothing goes to waste, and the cycle of life and death is complete as death brings new life. it attests to the creativity of a generous Creator. witnessing growth, blossoms, and fruit ripening right in my backyard is mind blowing. tasting fresh from the vine tomatoes, cucumbers or strawberries... digging out dirt covered potatoes or carrots... well, it is enlightening. they taste different... better... less like an item purchased at a store... more like a miracle on your tongue.
the process takes time, and that is the beauty of it. because each avocado or cucumber or tomato or watermelon took time to grow from seed to appreciable nourishment. each zucchini or blueberry drank in the sun and rain. they are miracles each and every one.
growing herbs on the windowsill, growing sprouts from seed, or growing vegetables from vegetables... all enlightening and possible anywhere. growing tomatoes or zucchini instead of grass is a powerful act.
if each and every human fully appreciated exactly what they put into their mouths at each meal, it would be hard to let even one bite go to waste. it would be gut wrenching to think of the rain stopping or the sun becoming too scorchingly hot. it would make us angry to think of the pesticides that deplete our rich soil and endanger the harvesters of these precious jewels.
in my experience, gardening grows more than fruit and vegetables... it grows humans who notice and care... it grows grateful souls and activists.
love,
jane