Seven Circles Garden: The first bumper crop plays a game.

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Wednesday, July 6, 2011

A new use for summer squash.

What can you do with so many squash? Play a word game, of course, until you decide on a recipe for cooking them.

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