“If you think in terms of a year, plant a seed; if in terms of ten years, plant trees; if in terms of 100 years, teach the people.” -Confucius
This quote from the Chinese philosopher Confucius has been on my mind these past couple of weeks as I continue to balance the work of planting annual flowers and vegetables, increasing the number of edible and pollinator-friendly perennials at the farm, all while finishing up the school year substitute teaching at Buffalo High School and Middle School. This cool spring has allowed me to spend more time in the classroom while still keeping up with the responsibilities of the farm. This has been my first school year substitute teaching and I am finding that subbing and farming make a wonderful combination for me. On a basic level, the seasonal nature of both vocations work out well, and being in the classroom is mentally stimulating while providing a break from the physical aspect of farming. I have also come to realize that the unpredictable and chaotic nature of farming has really prepared me for the demands of the classroom. Much like raising bees or chickens or soil organisms, the best way to achieve a desired behavior from the group is to make small adjustments to the environment that ensure there are adequate resources, provide incentives for a desired outcome, and using awareness to anticipate a problem before it happens, all while permitting a productive amount of chaos. And of course if you can get past the frustration of the inevitable undesired outcomes, the productive chaos often times results in surprising and delightful moments. The bottom line is-- these young people need adults more than ever right now to step up and figure out how to leave the world in a better place than we have come to find it by challenging the structures keeping us in unproductive cycles. Of course, after a day spent with hundreds of different students there is no better respite than the greenhouse and gardens, and my privilege to return home every day to this healing space is not lost on me. As the school year comes to a close and my focus can be directed solely to the farm, I am excited about how the season is unfolding. The mix of farm offerings I am creating will hopefully speak to our need for everyday simple pleasures which could be the antidote to the struggles and exhaustions many of us are experiencing. From a refreshing botanical hydrosol mist to a crisp dill pickle, plus the chance to learn how to make things yourself, this season for me is all about healing ourselves and our community through creative expression, and I look forward to sharing the results with you. The first farm store will be Wednesday June 8th from 3pm-7pm and I will have available eggs, spring produce, dry herbal goods, plants, and maybe more. I hope to see you there! Farm store appointments are not required, but it is always helpful to let me know if you think you will be stopping by so I can plan accordingly! The best way to contact me is via email: [email protected], or via text at (612) 810-7497. Are you planning to be at the opening day of the farm store? You can also comment below! Sincerely, Sarah
1 Comment
Jennifer
5/26/2022 09:24:26 pm
I will be there
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Farmer Sarah
Musings from the Farm Archives
January 2024
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