I slowly traveled home the evening of this ice storm, in complete awe of the scene nature had painted for us. Trees shimmering with ice, as bright as diamonds on a cold February evening. 

That evening I heard nothing but the crackling of tree limbs and the howl of sirens around the city. 

There were a variety of watts folks woke up that next morning. Many woke up frigid and frustrated, having no power or idea when it may return. Some panicked, noticing the damage fallen trees had done to their property. Many woke up wondering how they would survive another cold day and night outside, and some woke up grateful that their home had made it through the storm with little to no repercussions. 

I woke up thinking about the farm; there are so many ways a fallen tree could cause a major setback and hamper our service to the community. So, I helped remove branches in my own neighborhood before setting out to assess the damage at the urban farm & marketplace hall. I was again in awe of the Earth, the trees, and the ice and was reminded that: 

The Earth is in control, and not us. 

Farming, foraging, and gardening can be as much about listening to and working with the Earth as it is about receiving from it. The Earth takes only for what it needs and gives in abundance. Imagine if we all lived by these principles. 

As many of us dream of and plan for spring, I encourage you to slow down and simply notice the Earth. Everything is changing, and it is hard at work. And if you participate in growing, eating, or purchasing local produce, consider what it might mean to do as the Earth does: take what you need and give in abundance. 

Together, with this mindset, we can develop more fulfilling relationships with the Earth, and with one another and actualize a truly just and sovereign food system where everyone has access to fresh, local produce.

In Solidarity, 

Julius

P.S. Your support helps the Growing Hope Urban Farm give in abundance, so every member of our community has an opportunity to take what they need.