Why is it that we desire the stewardship of so many living creatures? An average spring morning in our household unfolds with a 6am breastfeeding wake up call. Keegan rises as Theo and I are doing our thing, offers kisses and a glass of water, then heads off to check on and rotate the baby ducklings in the incubator. The cats greet him in the hall, they exchange some love then head outside together. Regardless of weather or impending obligations the rabbits require daily food and water, and the ducks and chickens wait impatiently to vacate the coop and begin their days foraging. An expanding ripple of seedling trays request early morning watering before the heat of the day demands their continued growth. Perennial plantings may occasionally call for the precious water as well. Don't forget to check on the little baby chicks to make sure those darlings still have food and water. Once these tasks have been completed curiosity and hope compels you to inspect the innumerable apple tree grafts that promise new life, or maybe peek at the inoculated mycelium running through the substrate. Then, the morning generally can be capped off by a shared breakfast amongst our household before the day begins.
Why is it that we desire giving ourselves so much 'work'? That's the catch right there. To us, this amount of daily care is far from carrying a negative connotation like 'work'. It's our passion. Spring is heavily pronounced as the season for new life, and we look forward to this moment returning every year. These projects of ours will hopefully continue to grow and provide educational experiences and nourishment to ourselves and the community at large. These projects teach us the meaning of responsibility and our capacity to look after interests beyond our own. We care for and steward these precious lives and in return they nurture us just as deeply.
The Dalai Lama purports the meaning of life to be held within one's capacity to help others, to contribute to their happiness. His philosophy is admirable and inspiring, and something to strive for everyday. This thought will carry with me through the busy months ahead, as we continue to cultivate the happiness of the many lives in our care.
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