Psalm 115

In his very good book, "The Third Plate," author and chef Dan Berber writes of his meetings with farmers and growers who embrace the idea that their land and what they are growing are just a part of the eco-system that surrounds their enterprises, and it is the entire eco-system that contributes to their successes.  Included in his reflections is the story of  Veta la Palma, a project that is successfully bringing healthy farm-raised sea bass to market.  When Berber asked Miguel Medialdea, the biologist for this enterprise, about the large bird population (Berber reports that the species count has grown from 50 known species in 1982 to now over 250) that was also enjoying the fruits of their labors,  Medialdea replied, "We are in this together. The response of nature has been stronger than we thought. We are good partners."   That beautiful theme seems to be a common thread of these growers who are embracing, not only their projects, but all the life that is around them.  These are inspiring stories of men and women learning to be a part of the environment; not the conquering heroes. 

 

A few mornings ago, I paused at a small flower garden I have enjoyed viewing for awhile now.  It was still early in the morning, but even then I noticed quite a few honey bees in the garden.  While I was there, the homeowner joined me.  I introduced myself and thanked him for creating such a beautiful garden. He said that in the warmth of the afternoon sun he will often see butterflies and other species of bees visit the garden.  He mentioned how much he enjoyed watching them and invited me to drop by anytime.     

 

In that moment I realized that we have lost so many pollinators because we have not been enjoying them.  Had we been enjoying them, we would be planting for them and the diversity of plant life that they help to create.  I don't think we humans really enjoy using pesticides, but we are blindly believing the myth that using these chemicals is the most expeditious way to garner high crop yields and picturesque private landscapes.  However, the cost is proving much too high.   It is time for us to learn to become partners once more.       

   

 

   

Those who teach illusion

are ignorant

as are those who trust in them.

May you call upon the Holy One,

you and your children.

May you be guided by the Spirit of Truth,

who dwells in your heart.

The heavens declare the glory

of the Creator,

the earth, too, is filled

with wonder, gifts of Love.

   

 Psalm 115 

Psalms for Praying

Nan C. Merrill