On Sunday March 13 at 2 a.m., Daylight Saving Time begins in the United States. We “Spring forward” an hour on our clocks to enjoy the sun lingering later in the afternoon. The Spring equinox occurs a week later on Sunday, March 20. We look forward to springtime return of emerging buds and greening landscapes of Nature and our mind, body, and spirit. This annual revitalization and renewal of life can remind us that existing trials and tribulations (like budget repair and income tax preparation) are fleeting and trivial in the larger scheme. Nature has the ability to heal us and turn our attention to what really matters.
May the stars carry your sadness away,
May the flowers fill your heart with beauty,
May hope forever wipe away your tears,
And, above all, may silence make you strong.–Chief Dan George (Tsleil-Waututh Nation, a Coast Salish band located on Burrard Inlet in North Vancouver, British Columbia.
In March it’s sugar bush maple tapping time! It’s approaching time to start sowing seeds under lamps in the basement or well-insulated greenhouses outdoors. With a few turns, winter’s compost in the backyard will be ready. The revitalizing emergence of springtime turns my thoughts to Permaculture. Taking lessons from and mimicking Nature in restorative and resilient care of the land and people at our homes and in our communities re-connects us to Mother Earth. Making healthy soil to grow healthy food for healthy people living healthy lifestyles together harmoniously and happily is what Permaculture is about. Permaculture is not new; it is a re-awakening to old wisdom and indigenous knowledge tried and true.
Humankind has not woven the web of life.
We are but one thread within it.
Whatever we do to the web, we do to ourselves.
All things are bound together.
All things connect.–Chief Seattle (Anglicization of Si’ahl) (c. 1780-1866), Dkhw’Duw’Absh (Duwamish) Coast Salish tribe located near Seattle, Washington (Source of quotes:http://www.sapphyr.net/natam/quotes-nativeamerican.htm)
Enjoy this spring season’s new beginnings with hope in your heart and strength of wisdom in Mother Earth’s proselytizing Permaculture. After all, She’s the one who teaches us well.
Soiled again!
Victor D. Phillips
GEM Director
GEM Education Center Blog 