Fast Time

Returning to the earth:

Start where you are...

As I spend time in my urban garden -- of my own design -- preparing the soil for next spring. Clearing old growth while collecting the falling leaves from off the property to add to my compost bin.

On a consistent basis I search the city for "organic" material otherwise know as "waste" from farmers markets, organic grocery stores, as well as smaller establishments with which I have an intimate relationship, and the like to collect my compost.

Obtain cow manure from grass fed and pasture raised cows. (This manure is used both in the second stages of my compost as well as in a burning ritual commonly known in North America as Agnihorta/ Homa therapy). The manure is to be mixed with organic soil mix, worm castings, house and collection compost material, as well as mushroom compost.

I will continue to collect leaves during the fall -- from parks, neighbors, and vacant lost -- and burn them, at lest the majority of them, in late autumn so as to have an ash covering for the soil.

I plan on also obtaining mushroom compost with a mixture of worm castings. This is an excellent source of nutrient for your garden. If you can find someone selling mushrooms inquire about getting your hands on their compost.

Purchasing organic soil mix might be a good idea as you want to cover your second stage compost with soil.

Always remember to give thanks to your creation. However you choose to give thanks -- burning incense, playing music, dancing, chanting -- whatever it may be take time and give back.

Remember to capture and reuse rain water - very important!

If you feel like your garden is overpowering you I suggest picking up a book or two. I won't give you any suggestions here since there's a book out there for each and every one of you but I will say that you should look for material that deals with renewable, organic, and permanent agriculture. Nuff said.

I can't stress the notion of community when regarding food and your garden/farm/market place. Grow your food with the knowing of universality and onesness. Feed as many people as you can from your crops.