Seven Circles Garden: May 2011

Sunday, May 29, 2011

garden gate

from Ellen...
The garden entry gate was designed by the fifth grade, created by Raglan Tuttle (one of our dads) , and gifted by the parents of the fifth grade. The photo shows the nearly completed design....missing are the words "Love Grows" which will appear at the top end of the gate.

stump removal

saying goodbye to the dying oak tree...
images by Jerry

Monday, May 16, 2011

fruit and flowers in early May

Some shots taken by Reuel last week...

Sunday, May 15, 2011

Sunday Morning - May 15, 2011

Work on the deer fence, play and laughter, citrus trees in FULL bloom, apple trees blooming with mini fruits coming...
photos by Susan

Retrospect

A look back at the first months...

photos by Brigitte and Susan

Involvement is connection, contribution, association, taking part, interest, commitment, enthusiasm, inspiration.

At the Meher Schools, we’ve discovered that nearly everything we do that is worth doing comes from the energy of love.

No one has exclusive ownership of Ideas. We discover when we become aware of an idea and begin to speak of our excitement and enthusiasm about that “idea,” that it is actually a vision shared by others, and that vision can take form only by real collaboration. Each of us holds a piece of the vision.

We know that nothing can be forced. If the timing is right, then everything lines up to support the manifestation of the vision. If the timing is right, and if the urge comes from the heart, the energy is there to accomplish the impossible. The work builds on itself, and provides the nutrition for growth and sustainability. .

Our Seven Circles Garden is such an idea, and is also its own perfect living metaphor. The timing was right, and indeed, everything lined up to make this wonderful platform for learning and growth possible. Hard work, collaboration, enthusiasm, no one taking ownership, “being there and being involved,” with invitation but not obligation, Joining others as they catch fire. To me, that is how we inspire others to become involved.

People want to be part of something meaningful and bigger than themselves, and to feel that their efforts, no matter how large or small, contribute to the success of a project. We honor and appreciate all efforts. The work itself is the reward, as is the experience of connecting with others who have tapped into the same current. Just look around. We are all grateful for the opportunity, and wish that every school could have this experience. And if an “award” follows, then it is one that is shared by every person who participates.

~ Ellen's acceptance speech for the Sustainable Contra Costa Best School Award, October 7, 2011