Learning Harvest: Final Course Reflections
Final Reflections Victoria Ellis
Three Key Learnings from this Course
Absolutely Anything is Possible
Always knowing that the capitalist ways of my home-town were not all there was to life, drove me out to the desert to have these such experiences. Nature has always held all of the answers for me, and listening to the eternal tuning fork, and being brought into the presence of so many dreamers, believers, movers and shakers, has confirmed once more that anything I dream into existence can become my reality. From all the folks we visited along our field trip, to Joshua, Colleen, and our entire class of dreamers, I have witnessed endless paths towards the common goal of healing this planet, one self and one step at a time. We are all embodying the change we want to see in the world, and throughout this course I have been able to observe all the transformative change radiating from such wise actions.
Nature has always held the key to our imprisoned souls
From healing our souls, to our destructive ways of living as citizens of this planet, to our detrimental acts towards one another, nature continues to prove that all the answers we seek lie within, and all around us. The deeper nature of ourselves, our souls, coupled with the intricate wisdom that exists all around us in our natural environment, is calling out to be “remembered”, and it all begins with a “re-minding” of ourselves. Getting back to our roots, our humble beginnings and ways of interacting, hold many solutions that we are beginning to rediscover. We have always held the answers, and our natural ways of existence have proven regenerative for countless civilizations, and luckily we are beginning to collectively wake up to the wisdom that lies within. Healing the feminine aspects of our psyches and perspectives, bringing balance between the masculine and feminine sides of all life, brings us inadvertently in touch with our souls. Nature continues to show that a wise guide exists all around us, the same guiding life force that exists in every sentient being on this planet. Permaculture is an important facet in this mass reminding, and proves to me that if people care enough about what goes into their bodies for nourishment, and are seeking ways to work with the abundance of nature to provide abundance for themselves, we are truly seeing our citizens work together towards the health of this planet.
I am a valued part of the transformation of the planet
Having had yet another opportunity to witness my divine place in time, throughout this course and our time in the field; I have received deep confirmation of my purpose in this life. My capacity to radiate love and facilitate change in the world around me, is directly dependent on my path to enlightenment. The more veils I pierce and the more love I discover within, the greater chance I have of being a leader of change. Bearing witness to the love and compassion that radiates from myself to all those around me, in addition to witnessing the effects changes I enact can have on our environment, I am affirmed that my path of self discovery plays a key role in the healing of our planet. The organic unfolding of this course, and all I have been able to observe and discover, has proven the invaluable role my awareness plays in my reality. Nothing is more important than continuing my path with heart, for the transcendence of myself and our planet as we know it.
My Practice: Daily Meditation
I chose to set a goal of remaining dedicated to my moments of meditation throughout my days, something I have occasionally lost track of in the past. Working through the barriers of thoughts of “busy mind”, and remaining dedicated to removing such thoughts and holding such space for myself, truly enhanced my experience of this course. Meditating has always kept me strong in the face of daily life, as well as keeping me centered and aware of my place in time. Such time also allows me to remain an active participant and co-creator of my experience of life. I have reminded myself that my moments of silence are invaluable, and that nothing, and certainly not my ego or schedule, need interfere with my time spent with myself. Those precious still moments throughout my school and travel days, helped me remain aware of all the signs from spirit all around me. I have deepened my conversations with my higher self, with the land, and the incredible people around me. I shall always be grateful for setting such a goal, to always remain dedicated to my care of myself, as the true beginning of care for the planet.
Dreams of a Revolution
If I could design and facilitate anything that I knew would be successful, I would completely revolutionize our daily lives, in one fell swoop. I would band together countries, governments, and all the power players of our world’s economy, politics, sciences, arts, alongside elders and indigenous communities, to initiate ways of living that mimic nature in their entirety. From city re-designs, to waste and pollution management, to each and every product man has ever made, wasted, or are currently consuming, I would make plans to halt all destructive life as we know it. I would involve every citizen of this planet, in a massive uprising towards the greater good of all, now. We all deserve the honor to be involved in a deep, wise quest for the highest capacities within, while working together to enact such bold changes, and support those attached to the desecration of the planet, stemming from their detachment from their souls. Within one calendar year, all human life supporting systems can be transformed from destructive to regenerative. All human existence can work seamlessly with the environment, if we all band together our energy, for simple, effective, and swift acts to heal this planet. Humans can be brought back in touch with our true natures, our souls, and luckily mass transformation begins with transformations of self!
I would enact this scenario because we need to stop wasting time hiding from the magic of ourselves, and all the veils placed over us, for the sake of our survival in addition to that of the planet that allows us to survive. Our children, not to mention ourselves, our elders, our entire environment, are wasting away before our very eyes, and waiting for change to come from patho-adolescent leaders, will surely be our demise. After all, under-developed values of capitalistic gains at all costs, have gotten us to this point, luckily they are becoming the minority, and the masses are beginning to wake up! Revolutions have always saved us in the nick of time, I simply feel we are on the precipice of another.
Absolutely Anything is Possible
Always knowing that the capitalist ways of my home-town were not all there was to life, drove me out to the desert to have these such experiences. Nature has always held all of the answers for me, and listening to the eternal tuning fork, and being brought into the presence of so many dreamers, believers, movers and shakers, has confirmed once more that anything I dream into existence can become my reality. From all the folks we visited along our field trip, to Joshua, Colleen, and our entire class of dreamers, I have witnessed endless paths towards the common goal of healing this planet, one self and one step at a time. We are all embodying the change we want to see in the world, and throughout this course I have been able to observe all the transformative change radiating from such wise actions.
Nature has always held the key to our imprisoned souls
From healing our souls, to our destructive ways of living as citizens of this planet, to our detrimental acts towards one another, nature continues to prove that all the answers we seek lie within, and all around us. The deeper nature of ourselves, our souls, coupled with the intricate wisdom that exists all around us in our natural environment, is calling out to be “remembered”, and it all begins with a “re-minding” of ourselves. Getting back to our roots, our humble beginnings and ways of interacting, hold many solutions that we are beginning to rediscover. We have always held the answers, and our natural ways of existence have proven regenerative for countless civilizations, and luckily we are beginning to collectively wake up to the wisdom that lies within. Healing the feminine aspects of our psyches and perspectives, bringing balance between the masculine and feminine sides of all life, brings us inadvertently in touch with our souls. Nature continues to show that a wise guide exists all around us, the same guiding life force that exists in every sentient being on this planet. Permaculture is an important facet in this mass reminding, and proves to me that if people care enough about what goes into their bodies for nourishment, and are seeking ways to work with the abundance of nature to provide abundance for themselves, we are truly seeing our citizens work together towards the health of this planet.
I am a valued part of the transformation of the planet
Having had yet another opportunity to witness my divine place in time, throughout this course and our time in the field; I have received deep confirmation of my purpose in this life. My capacity to radiate love and facilitate change in the world around me, is directly dependent on my path to enlightenment. The more veils I pierce and the more love I discover within, the greater chance I have of being a leader of change. Bearing witness to the love and compassion that radiates from myself to all those around me, in addition to witnessing the effects changes I enact can have on our environment, I am affirmed that my path of self discovery plays a key role in the healing of our planet. The organic unfolding of this course, and all I have been able to observe and discover, has proven the invaluable role my awareness plays in my reality. Nothing is more important than continuing my path with heart, for the transcendence of myself and our planet as we know it.
My Practice: Daily Meditation
I chose to set a goal of remaining dedicated to my moments of meditation throughout my days, something I have occasionally lost track of in the past. Working through the barriers of thoughts of “busy mind”, and remaining dedicated to removing such thoughts and holding such space for myself, truly enhanced my experience of this course. Meditating has always kept me strong in the face of daily life, as well as keeping me centered and aware of my place in time. Such time also allows me to remain an active participant and co-creator of my experience of life. I have reminded myself that my moments of silence are invaluable, and that nothing, and certainly not my ego or schedule, need interfere with my time spent with myself. Those precious still moments throughout my school and travel days, helped me remain aware of all the signs from spirit all around me. I have deepened my conversations with my higher self, with the land, and the incredible people around me. I shall always be grateful for setting such a goal, to always remain dedicated to my care of myself, as the true beginning of care for the planet.
Dreams of a Revolution
If I could design and facilitate anything that I knew would be successful, I would completely revolutionize our daily lives, in one fell swoop. I would band together countries, governments, and all the power players of our world’s economy, politics, sciences, arts, alongside elders and indigenous communities, to initiate ways of living that mimic nature in their entirety. From city re-designs, to waste and pollution management, to each and every product man has ever made, wasted, or are currently consuming, I would make plans to halt all destructive life as we know it. I would involve every citizen of this planet, in a massive uprising towards the greater good of all, now. We all deserve the honor to be involved in a deep, wise quest for the highest capacities within, while working together to enact such bold changes, and support those attached to the desecration of the planet, stemming from their detachment from their souls. Within one calendar year, all human life supporting systems can be transformed from destructive to regenerative. All human existence can work seamlessly with the environment, if we all band together our energy, for simple, effective, and swift acts to heal this planet. Humans can be brought back in touch with our true natures, our souls, and luckily mass transformation begins with transformations of self!
I would enact this scenario because we need to stop wasting time hiding from the magic of ourselves, and all the veils placed over us, for the sake of our survival in addition to that of the planet that allows us to survive. Our children, not to mention ourselves, our elders, our entire environment, are wasting away before our very eyes, and waiting for change to come from patho-adolescent leaders, will surely be our demise. After all, under-developed values of capitalistic gains at all costs, have gotten us to this point, luckily they are becoming the minority, and the masses are beginning to wake up! Revolutions have always saved us in the nick of time, I simply feel we are on the precipice of another.
An incredible moment along my trip, captured by the lovely Shannon Radke
My moments in this course have left my heart wide open and full of gratitude for all this one wild and precious life has to offer. From deepening my understanding of my place in time, my purpose here, and the role I play in the web of life, the wisdom gained from this course will always be imprinted on my heart. Deepest gratitude and love will always rest with all those along this beautiful journey I call life.
With love, Victoria
With love, Victoria
Week Four Reflection
Shona Estey-Edwards
Three Key Learnings:
Remember it’s all connected. Whole system thinking offers such an incredible way of viewing the complexities and interconnections present on the planet.
Collaborative leadership is a profound tool in change making. We need more collaboration, cooperation and coming together in community to create the world that will allow us to thrive, to take care of each other, and to work diligently as stewards of this exquisite planet that we call home.
Follow your heart and the goodness that resides there, it will lead you the place of infinite inspiration and creativity that will support in brining your gifts to the world.
Personal Practice Notes:
My personal practice over the past month has been to maintain a consistent meditation practice of sitting for about ten minutes each morning after waking up and each evening before going to bed. In addition to the practice of meditating, I kept a practice log with brief notes/musings on the experience of each sit. About a year ago I participated in a ten-day Vipassana course and maintained a consistent meditation practice for many months after. My commitment to the practice dissipated with the busyness of travel and work over the summer and had not been reestablished since. The practice of meditation is an important component of maintaining balance and centeredness in my dynamic and active life.
The moments that I took in the morning and evening to meditate were/are important pillars to my day and life and offer an opportunity to sit still and in silence with myself as a way to just be and observe instead of do and engage (which tends to be my default mode). It felt so good to create the space in my day to reengage with this practice and is something that I intend on continuing forward with. This personal practice was a reminder that it is so important for me to create the time for self-care so that I can show up in the world as my most healthy and vibrant self to do the work.
Envisioned Project:
If I could design and facilitate any project with the knowing that it would be successful I would create a School of Life. The working vision that I have for this creation is that this school would be a place that is open and inviting to everyone to come to and offer what they have to teach as well as to be a student of the things that they want/need to learn with the focus being on what it means to be a happy, healthy, thriving human as well as how to make that a reality. I envision this as a place to explore, play, dream, and to give and receive on many levels. I believe that there are many important “life skills” that we are not usually educated on in our current education model, and that are not always taught to us by family/culture/community. Something as fundamental as how to make healthy choices around food (sourcing, buying, and cooking) that nourishes and sustains your own body and the Earth body from which it comes, is a component of humanness that I see to be often overlooked in education and upbringing. We are relational creatures, spending our entire lives in a vast array of relationships beginning with relationship with mother as we are carried in a womb, and yet the art of relationship and how to do healthy, thriving relationships of all kinds is not something that is explicitly taught to. These are just some of the examples of what might be offered in this place of teaching and learning. I would love to create a place where people feel safe and inspired to share their gifts and to be open to receiving what others have to share.
Remember it’s all connected. Whole system thinking offers such an incredible way of viewing the complexities and interconnections present on the planet.
Collaborative leadership is a profound tool in change making. We need more collaboration, cooperation and coming together in community to create the world that will allow us to thrive, to take care of each other, and to work diligently as stewards of this exquisite planet that we call home.
Follow your heart and the goodness that resides there, it will lead you the place of infinite inspiration and creativity that will support in brining your gifts to the world.
Personal Practice Notes:
My personal practice over the past month has been to maintain a consistent meditation practice of sitting for about ten minutes each morning after waking up and each evening before going to bed. In addition to the practice of meditating, I kept a practice log with brief notes/musings on the experience of each sit. About a year ago I participated in a ten-day Vipassana course and maintained a consistent meditation practice for many months after. My commitment to the practice dissipated with the busyness of travel and work over the summer and had not been reestablished since. The practice of meditation is an important component of maintaining balance and centeredness in my dynamic and active life.
The moments that I took in the morning and evening to meditate were/are important pillars to my day and life and offer an opportunity to sit still and in silence with myself as a way to just be and observe instead of do and engage (which tends to be my default mode). It felt so good to create the space in my day to reengage with this practice and is something that I intend on continuing forward with. This personal practice was a reminder that it is so important for me to create the time for self-care so that I can show up in the world as my most healthy and vibrant self to do the work.
Envisioned Project:
If I could design and facilitate any project with the knowing that it would be successful I would create a School of Life. The working vision that I have for this creation is that this school would be a place that is open and inviting to everyone to come to and offer what they have to teach as well as to be a student of the things that they want/need to learn with the focus being on what it means to be a happy, healthy, thriving human as well as how to make that a reality. I envision this as a place to explore, play, dream, and to give and receive on many levels. I believe that there are many important “life skills” that we are not usually educated on in our current education model, and that are not always taught to us by family/culture/community. Something as fundamental as how to make healthy choices around food (sourcing, buying, and cooking) that nourishes and sustains your own body and the Earth body from which it comes, is a component of humanness that I see to be often overlooked in education and upbringing. We are relational creatures, spending our entire lives in a vast array of relationships beginning with relationship with mother as we are carried in a womb, and yet the art of relationship and how to do healthy, thriving relationships of all kinds is not something that is explicitly taught to. These are just some of the examples of what might be offered in this place of teaching and learning. I would love to create a place where people feel safe and inspired to share their gifts and to be open to receiving what others have to share.
I took this photo at the Deep Dirt Farm Institute in Patagonia, AZ. It is a reminder for me to be like water and always search for the path of least resistance, to go deep, and to be persistent in change with an enduring softness.
“The natural world is subject as well as object. The natural world is the maternal source of our being as earthlings and life-giving nourishment of our physical, emotional, aesthetic, moral and religious existence. The natural world is the larger sacred community to which we belong. To be alienated from this community is to become destitute in all that makes us human. To damage this community is to diminish our own existence.”
-Thomas Berry, The Dream of the Earth
I move forward into life with a deeper resiliency and inspiration to do the good work, share love of place and people, and to let the wild winds of creativity guide me along the path of life. I am in infinite gratitude for the opportunity to be a part of this learning community and to share in the journey of it all.
In love and gratitude,
~Shona
-Thomas Berry, The Dream of the Earth
I move forward into life with a deeper resiliency and inspiration to do the good work, share love of place and people, and to let the wild winds of creativity guide me along the path of life. I am in infinite gratitude for the opportunity to be a part of this learning community and to share in the journey of it all.
In love and gratitude,
~Shona
Nicholas Balik - Personal Reflection
There was a plethora of knowledge obtained from this course and the key learning that resides strongly with my current locus are the awareness and practice of the Art of Hosting, leverage points, and the permaculture flower. The Art of Hosting is an effective process for collective knowledge to be organized and shared in groups of any size. The Art of Hosting is based on an assumption that humans put forth their energies and resources on things that matter most to them. It uses a powerful and effective conversational process that encourages people to take charge of their life. It gives persons a skill set to confront complex challenges. Donella Meadows explains, “Leverage points are places within a complex system (a corporation, economy, a living body, a city, an ecosystem) where a small shift in one thing can produce big changes in everything.” One of the most influential leverage points discussed is the power to transcend paradigms. This is where one keeps themselves disconnected from paradigms by staying flexible and knowing that no paradigm is true. Finally, the permaculture flower as allowed for a visual of complex systems to be possible. This helps to resonate the world’s interconnections and provides examples for implementation.
The personal practice I chose to enact daily was to spend five or ten minutes to reflect on each day. I would reflect on how my connections to the persons around me mattered in my own perspective. This was not meditation, or maybe it was? Regardless, this allowed me to dive deeper into myself and found new forms of resolution from past experiences. I was able to come to some conclusions on the self and continue to understand, forgive and grow a loving relationship with myself. My spiritual being has rarely been nurtured throughout the course of my life, and this personal practice began the nourishment again.
With no limitations to the capacities of creating a successful project my first inclination is to remodel my old elementary school and revamp it staring with a basis for permaculture principles. In the center of many homes it could be an inspirational model to help guide others in teachings and applications of permaculture. I would go about purchasing the 34 acre plot of land the old school resides on. This elementary school is across the street from my grandma’s house. I would remodel her home as well and live there. The elementary school currently is closed and is just a weathering away structure with two large parks surrounding it. The entire property can be revamped to permaculture practices and ultimately one day open again as an institute for teachings supporting systemic change in the community, surrounding communities, and become a model for Arizonians. The institute would have continuous workshops helping the community with gardening techniques, water harvesting methods, and educate people on the landscape they currently live in so they can live with and nurture nature. This would be implemented in an urbanized area. Growing community, youth, and molding self-sufficiency and resiliency into the character of people would be the result. As the community grows together so will the interconnections of the natural world. The institute with host numerous events and activities to be as inclusive as possible; these include: backpacking trips, trail runs, gardening, strawbale construction, painting, movie nights, baseball, soccer, basketball, football, other sports, dinners, conversation nights, open spaces, reading events, speakers and so, so much more!
“You don’t set out to build a wall, you don’t say I’m going to build the biggest baddest wall that has ever been built. You don’t start there. Instead you say I’m going to lay this brick as perfectly as a brick can be laid. And you do that every single day and soon you have a wall.”
-Will Smith
Each day of this experience has felt like a brick in my developing wall.
leo shore- personal reflection
Final Reflection:
In this course, Permaculture for Systemic Change, what I learned was very different from what I expected to learn coming into the class. This turned out to be a valuable experience which challenged me to open up to new ways of thinking and being. I ended up learning much more about people and myself than about farming techniques and practices. In other words, I was introduced to the social aspect of permaculture rather than the technical aspect (while there was still a lot of technical learning to be had through the design process).
The first key aspect I learned about through this class was how greatly each person can differ in their vision and interpretation of the way things are, could be and perhaps should be. Additionally, I learned more about the value of respecting and appreciating the diversity of viewpoints and all that it can offer, not only in the permaculture/systemic design process but also beyond, into various spheres of life. This class challenged me to open up and fairly consider everyone's viewpoints, and to appreciate the inherent rightness and equality that we all share. This is where learning occurs, outside of our own comfort zones and familiar patterns of thought. When we give new and sometimes challenging ideas a chance in our heads, we are given a more encompassing picture than we could possibly achieve on our own.
The second aspect I learned about is directly tied to the first. When I accepted the challenge to open up and let others into my working headspace, the results were impressive to me. The creation of our group's permaculture design was an example of this. Each person contributed something and the end result as a whole was a beautiful reflection of each person while simultaneously being necessarily different and greater than what any one of us could have created on our own. Our field trip was another example of this, although in a less concrete form. As a whole group coming together, we co-created an experience which was so rich and diverse: at times almost unbearably fun and hilarious, at other times necessarily serious and full of deep learning and questioning, with a whole spectrum of emotions and events in between.
The final aspect is also tied to these other two aspects. Through this class I was introduced in a new way to the power of co-design and co-creation. When people are given the space to express their thoughts and ideas in a collaborative and safe setting, it is incredible what kind of things can be produced. Throughout the class and the field trip, I felt that the space was free for people to express whatever they felt or thought. This created many moments which were precious, real and honest. It is from those kind of spaces that really unique and beautiful things can be formed.
My personal practice for this course, which I will carry into the future, is to not smoke tobacco and to be more conscious of the things I consume and take into my body. Having met this goal, I am really grateful for the perspective it has given me on the power of our bodies to adapt and heal and be resilient. I have noticed several positive changes in my human system, both physical and mental.
If I could design and facilitate any project, it would be, and will be, to create a self-sustaining, off grid farm/homestead, a free and open community project which exists in harmony with the land. For me, this is the ultimate goal, because in my mind, it represents a perfect system. Of course, in order to create such a system, one must be willing to mirror nature in all of its vast, diverse qualities.
This picture would be the summation of my learning in this course:
In this course, Permaculture for Systemic Change, what I learned was very different from what I expected to learn coming into the class. This turned out to be a valuable experience which challenged me to open up to new ways of thinking and being. I ended up learning much more about people and myself than about farming techniques and practices. In other words, I was introduced to the social aspect of permaculture rather than the technical aspect (while there was still a lot of technical learning to be had through the design process).
The first key aspect I learned about through this class was how greatly each person can differ in their vision and interpretation of the way things are, could be and perhaps should be. Additionally, I learned more about the value of respecting and appreciating the diversity of viewpoints and all that it can offer, not only in the permaculture/systemic design process but also beyond, into various spheres of life. This class challenged me to open up and fairly consider everyone's viewpoints, and to appreciate the inherent rightness and equality that we all share. This is where learning occurs, outside of our own comfort zones and familiar patterns of thought. When we give new and sometimes challenging ideas a chance in our heads, we are given a more encompassing picture than we could possibly achieve on our own.
The second aspect I learned about is directly tied to the first. When I accepted the challenge to open up and let others into my working headspace, the results were impressive to me. The creation of our group's permaculture design was an example of this. Each person contributed something and the end result as a whole was a beautiful reflection of each person while simultaneously being necessarily different and greater than what any one of us could have created on our own. Our field trip was another example of this, although in a less concrete form. As a whole group coming together, we co-created an experience which was so rich and diverse: at times almost unbearably fun and hilarious, at other times necessarily serious and full of deep learning and questioning, with a whole spectrum of emotions and events in between.
The final aspect is also tied to these other two aspects. Through this class I was introduced in a new way to the power of co-design and co-creation. When people are given the space to express their thoughts and ideas in a collaborative and safe setting, it is incredible what kind of things can be produced. Throughout the class and the field trip, I felt that the space was free for people to express whatever they felt or thought. This created many moments which were precious, real and honest. It is from those kind of spaces that really unique and beautiful things can be formed.
My personal practice for this course, which I will carry into the future, is to not smoke tobacco and to be more conscious of the things I consume and take into my body. Having met this goal, I am really grateful for the perspective it has given me on the power of our bodies to adapt and heal and be resilient. I have noticed several positive changes in my human system, both physical and mental.
If I could design and facilitate any project, it would be, and will be, to create a self-sustaining, off grid farm/homestead, a free and open community project which exists in harmony with the land. For me, this is the ultimate goal, because in my mind, it represents a perfect system. Of course, in order to create such a system, one must be willing to mirror nature in all of its vast, diverse qualities.
This picture would be the summation of my learning in this course:
Sierra Reinertson
- Everything is interconnected.
- Think seven generations ahead.
- Use the principles of permaculture as a lens on your way through life.
In Permaculture for systemic change, I was reminded of the deep connections between all systems on, and possibly beyond this earth. Through the principles of permaculture, we analyzed these systems on a broad scale, and then applied them to Juniper Well Ranch; where we were to create a permaculture design. In brainstorming the design, I learned to think seven generations ahead, to think about zones, where water runs, where the sun shines, wildlife, native plants; variables of the land that are essential to work with thoughtfully in order to create a sustainable or regenerative design. Beyond the design, I learned about the many different shapes permaculture principles can take when applied in reality. People are becoming more and more aware that the current mainstream system is failing, and are trying to find alternative routes through the exploration of food forests and vertical dome designs, through eco villages and cob houses. As a sum of what I’m taking away, “Slow down, get to know each other, and re-imagine the future.” (David Suzuki).
My personal practice was to get outside every morning; whether that be to go on a quick run, a walk through the neighborhood, or a bike ride to Wild Iris. I chose this practice in order to get myself out of my room, my unit, my village, and my own head everyday. To see light and feel the earth beneath me and the wind on my face. This was a very helpful practice for me. Depression and apathy hit when I’m confined, alone, surrounded by man-made things. So to be able to start each day off with the wisdom of nature helped make me feel both grateful and alive, often re-impassioned.
During a previous PC course I learned about a ongoing project in Portland, Oregon, in which facilitators go out and organize neighborhoods to make murals at intersections. These murals serve as a way for neighborhoods to get to know one another, as well as allowing people the opportunity to collaboratively and artistically reclaim space. Although these are relatively “small impact” projects, they strike me as beautiful and powerful ways to inspire and create catalysts for change. So. I would do this project at two meaningful locations for myself. First, the intersection of Sheldon and Grove; getting all PC students and neighboring businesses involved. A mural here would expand PC influence on the community in a bright and positive manner. It might slow down cars as they pass. Or remind people who the streets really belong to. I would also instigate a mural by the community center/library in my hometown of Benicia, California. Here, I would stretch the rules, and call on inspired high school students to claim this space. This would allow young people to feel they have some control over their lives and over their environment. And allow them to realize that these public spaces are for them that they are powerful. That they can make room for themselves on this world.
“Once social change begins, it cannot be reversed. You cannot un-educate the person who has learned to read. You cannot humiliate the person who feels pride. You cannot oppress the people who are not afraid anymore."
Address to the Commonwealth Club in San Francisco, Nov. 9, 1984
― César Chávez
I will not forget the faces, the hearts and the hands. I will not forget the love, the hope, and the energy. I will remember that united, we stand strong and powerful to shift the systems.
-Sierra
Final Reflection Angela Marcinik
I choose to as my personal practice the art of journaling. For me journaling is not just writing in one notebook everyday. It is more dynamic, it involves online resources as well. I might write in a physical journal and the next day spend time making a spreadsheet. I use the act of “journaling” to gather ideas, brainstorm, imagine and dream. While a spreadsheet of arid medicinals might be a chore for some people I love the act of collecting, of gathering. It helps me see connections and patterns in the larger world. It’s not always spreadsheets though. It can be a dream that really felt meaningful, or a quote and picture I want to remember. In most of my journals they are a lot of ideas for inventions, recipes and events. Planning is calming to me and so planning a garden or a taco night is soothing. Through this collage of photos, lists, recipes and short essays on things usually surrounding the topic of plants, food or place I gain a fuller understanding of connection. It also provides a space for me to learn. Through this process I have to learn about all sorts of things. Once it was the etymology of the word “desert” which lead me to the etymology of the word “see” and after and an hour of looking up the etymology of a dozen different words I felt a deep understanding of the places and things in history. The word “plant” for example used to mean to push down into the earth with your feet. What a beautiful reflection of how planting was done. It also shows you how connected they were to the earth. How connected we are to the earth still in that we use that word even if the meaning has changed slightly.
In my journals I have many projects and plans I would like to facilitate, and that I believe if i followed my plan would be successful. I suppose If I were to pick one though it would be a place. I would wish to actualize a property space that hold foodie gatherings of one kind or another. This would be a working farm mostly doing perennials with a intimate and large event space for good food to be shared and eaten. I imagine chefs or food bloggers coming out for workshops to teach. I imagine connecting with a local school to provide them with inexpensive local food. I imagine using the organization to give farmers and local crafts people a voice. To spread their awesomeness. And to bring resiliency to the community. I would do this because I believe we can change the world thru food. It is something we take part in three or more times a day. We have the ability to align our morals with reality three or more times a day. That is three or more times to enact the change we wish to see in the world. It is 1095 times a year to support farmers and craftspeople who are treating the world with kindness and that’s just in the realm of food. If we as a people demand higher quality food, if we strongly support our local farmers we can change the food system. We can change our dialogue with the earth.
I would summarize this course with a recipe probably. As in a recipe there are multiply ingredients each of them providing something different each one important to the outcome. Each ingredient has it’s own backstory and it’s own properties. That all come together to create something nourishing and tasty.
In my journals I have many projects and plans I would like to facilitate, and that I believe if i followed my plan would be successful. I suppose If I were to pick one though it would be a place. I would wish to actualize a property space that hold foodie gatherings of one kind or another. This would be a working farm mostly doing perennials with a intimate and large event space for good food to be shared and eaten. I imagine chefs or food bloggers coming out for workshops to teach. I imagine connecting with a local school to provide them with inexpensive local food. I imagine using the organization to give farmers and local crafts people a voice. To spread their awesomeness. And to bring resiliency to the community. I would do this because I believe we can change the world thru food. It is something we take part in three or more times a day. We have the ability to align our morals with reality three or more times a day. That is three or more times to enact the change we wish to see in the world. It is 1095 times a year to support farmers and craftspeople who are treating the world with kindness and that’s just in the realm of food. If we as a people demand higher quality food, if we strongly support our local farmers we can change the food system. We can change our dialogue with the earth.
I would summarize this course with a recipe probably. As in a recipe there are multiply ingredients each of them providing something different each one important to the outcome. Each ingredient has it’s own backstory and it’s own properties. That all come together to create something nourishing and tasty.
~ Madelyn Boge
Three key learning points from Permaculture for Systemic Change
Throughout this course there were so many experiences that had such a positive impact on me. From all the places we explored and all the people we met, there was no lack of wisdom and there was no limit to what we could learn. In walking away from this course I believe the three key aspects I will be taking with me are the power of observation, how everything is connected, and the importance of spreading knowledge.
There is something to cherish about the power of observation. The moment where were we stop and see everything is the start to creating truly meaningful change. There are many complexities to Permaculture especially when it comes to its application, however with observation we allow ourselves a window to get to know our surrounding in a way that would not happen if we did not allow ourselves the time. I believe it brings us closer to understanding the land, the earth, and all that inhabit it.
I always believed that everything was connected, however, being brought up in a society where there are so many disconnections I did not realize how natural it was for us to be in connection with everything around us. There is a fluidity in all things, earth, creatures, and humans that is brilliant. What this course taught me was how to recognize where connections lie, how to seek out disconnections, and how to make everything flow again. I saw much of this in the places we visited, all of which were trying to restore the balance that has been lost.
Our words, more than anything, are going to create the most change. Or so I believe. And I never knew until now how important it is to spread our knowledge, our story, with others. Whether through song, or stories, or how we share our dreams and visions, we need to keep doing so. That is where connections between people are made and that is where inspiration happens.
My personal practice, yoga, was a way to remain centered throughout block. I have practiced yoga before but what I realized is that there was a lock of intention whenever I did it. Throughout the month I worked on keeping intention while I did yoga and this not only helped me ground myself but was used as a reflection tool and helped me collect my thoughts throughout the course. I learned to approach things with more intention and to be fully present.
If I could create a project I think it would be a ‘sanctuary’ established in a troubled community where people can come and build, garden, write, create art and music and just be free to explore ways of expressing themselves. If done with the permaculture principles in mind, I believe this would be a thriving place that would nourish the brilliant minds of the world and create ways people can reach out and make their voices heard.
- Power of Observation
- Everything is Connected
- Importance of Spreading Knowledge
Throughout this course there were so many experiences that had such a positive impact on me. From all the places we explored and all the people we met, there was no lack of wisdom and there was no limit to what we could learn. In walking away from this course I believe the three key aspects I will be taking with me are the power of observation, how everything is connected, and the importance of spreading knowledge.
There is something to cherish about the power of observation. The moment where were we stop and see everything is the start to creating truly meaningful change. There are many complexities to Permaculture especially when it comes to its application, however with observation we allow ourselves a window to get to know our surrounding in a way that would not happen if we did not allow ourselves the time. I believe it brings us closer to understanding the land, the earth, and all that inhabit it.
I always believed that everything was connected, however, being brought up in a society where there are so many disconnections I did not realize how natural it was for us to be in connection with everything around us. There is a fluidity in all things, earth, creatures, and humans that is brilliant. What this course taught me was how to recognize where connections lie, how to seek out disconnections, and how to make everything flow again. I saw much of this in the places we visited, all of which were trying to restore the balance that has been lost.
Our words, more than anything, are going to create the most change. Or so I believe. And I never knew until now how important it is to spread our knowledge, our story, with others. Whether through song, or stories, or how we share our dreams and visions, we need to keep doing so. That is where connections between people are made and that is where inspiration happens.
My personal practice, yoga, was a way to remain centered throughout block. I have practiced yoga before but what I realized is that there was a lock of intention whenever I did it. Throughout the month I worked on keeping intention while I did yoga and this not only helped me ground myself but was used as a reflection tool and helped me collect my thoughts throughout the course. I learned to approach things with more intention and to be fully present.
If I could create a project I think it would be a ‘sanctuary’ established in a troubled community where people can come and build, garden, write, create art and music and just be free to explore ways of expressing themselves. If done with the permaculture principles in mind, I believe this would be a thriving place that would nourish the brilliant minds of the world and create ways people can reach out and make their voices heard.
Ancient Alligator Juniper tree at Juniper Well Ranch.
“Yesterday I was clever, so I wanted to change the world. Today I am wise, so I am changing myself."
- Rumi
“Raise your words, not voice. It is rain that grows flowers, not thunder.”
- Rumi
Aside from everything this course taught me about Permaculture, it has reminded me of things that I tend to forget. That journeying through life gracefully with bare feet makes everything a little simpler. And if we are to hold kindness in our hearts and light in our wake, we can create a truly beautiful world for all.
Jake Kadota
Learning Points
My first key piece of learning was the vastness of Permaculture this came to me on our learning journey through visiting with different people that had different but also similar opinions.These people and places showed me that permaculture is as much of a design process as it is a way of being.My next keyLearning point was the idea of community and how necessary it is for everything.I initially took this class to learn how to live by my self off the land.But this class showed me that you can achieve the same sense of living off the grid with out having to isolate your self and being involved with the community is vital.My Final key learning point is having a better understanding of system function and systemic change this is not what i came to this class to learn but i believe it is one of the most important things im taking because it can be applied to almost anything.Because of this i am really interested on how systems can be mapped and not only turned physical but also into art.Overall i learned a lot in this class to sum it up into one thing is the scale and resolution of things for instance with permaculture at the most simple resolution could be growing potatoes in a box.While at the largest scale could be a way of being.
Personal Practice
Over this course i tried to eat healthier more locally sourced food.This also entailed cooking for my self more than I'm used to.Overall it went pretty well i really felt a difference with eating better food and hope to continue to eat better but it was hard to completely break my old cycle especially when stressed with time.I found that when i had the time and space to prepare a meal i really enjoyed it but when i was confronted with time con-straights it was less enjoyable and i often went back to old ways.Our learning journey helped with centering and straightening out my diet which made eating healthier way easier.After this class i hope to continue to try to eat better especially when I'm older i realized that when i have the land i only wanna eat stuff i have processed.But that is not possible given my current diet and living situation.
Vison
If i could design any project i would implement a regenerative farming operations in countries such as Haiti or other third world countries.I see a huge opportunity for impoverished places to build community and use sustainable systemic thinking to heal their lands and countries .I choose Haiti in particular because i have first hand experience with the problems they're facing.For example i recently re watched the video i created about my experience i had 3 years ago and in it i talked about how the Haitians needed sustainable solutions in which they were actively apart of my mind immediately went to Permaculture and all the stuff i have learned over the course of this class and how that could be applied to making a better world for all inhabits.I would implement Permaculture this way because Most third world countries have fairly poor growing conditions i know Haiti is devastated by deforestation and over farming and i believe if they were able to heal there land they would be able to heal their countries along with creating very strong communities with the ability to provide for themselves.
I Chose the picture below to sum up my journey because this photo is all about curiosity.The goat is curious about me i'm curious about the goat.This reflects my journey because i took this class just because i was curious and this photo is just a reminder that good things come from being curious.
Something worth Leaving Behind
Shannon Radke
At the beginning of this class, we were asked to devote ourselves to a personal practice that would keep us from “burning out” in the upcoming weeks. The practice I chose was to spend time self-reflecting on natural systems through a written journal and photography.
Photography is something that I have only recently picked up. However, it is one of my simplest pleasures and joys. I was honored to be able to capture moments and places special to our group. It was a way for me to creatively contribute, while reflecting on camera settings and composition. I was able to make changes where needed, and further grow in my skills, love, and knowledge.
Additionally, I kept a journal for every day of my personal practice. I had original thought that much of the dialog would only recap how my daily walk or run was back to myself. However, I discovered that being able to devote time being honest with yourself is a treasure.
I soon found myself recounting the day; and picking out the interconnectedness of everyday things. I found myself shifting focus to the positive things, and remembering each day more clearly than I would have otherwise. Because of this practice, I formed memories long withstanding my own mind.
In addition, I gained three key learnings from the course.
There is knowledge gained from everywhere, everything, and everyone.
Prior to Prescott College, I had the mindset that teacher and student were infinitely different. While the College, itself, has been slowly shifting this idea; this class abolished it completely.
The idea of permaculture treats those connected as equals. It is the fish that provides fertilizer to the plants, and the plants that oxygenate the water for the fish. It is the plants that bear food for man, and man who cares for the plants and the fish.
There is no scale of power here; only stewardship and care for a network of beings that would not be without the other.
If one listens and watches; the land can tell you more about the effect of rainfall or drought than any weatherman could. The horse would mirror aspects within you; you may have never reflected upon. And any person of any age can share ideologies and truth, you never knew existed.
Song brings people together; from every walk of life and every language.
I have yet to witness a place where people were not connected through song or poem.
Kate shared a poem she had learned in Wales; and though we did not know the language or the plot, our hearts and minds shared its beauty.
Erin, and those from Avalon, shared musical talent around a blazing campfire. With each song and strum, we grew in wonder and appreciation.
Joshua read to us; with the stars as our glittering canopy. With each sentence, we envisioned possibilities of a brighter future; and quotes to carry us towards this goal.
Each of us sang together, laughed together, and shared together. We created memories stuck tight like cinnamon roll hugs.
In every culture and every age; song sparks commonality.
There truly is an art to hosting.
I once had a view that hosting was an old fashioned thing. I pictured days prior to women’s suffrage, where those in buttoned dresses and frilled aprons cleaned, cooked, cleaned, and cooked all with a smile on their face for never ending, messy men. Similar to an infomercial, the idea of hosting greatly agitated me.
Then, I met women like Margaret who hosted through joy; Erin who hosted through song; and Kate who hosted through life lessons. And, my view permanently changed.
Hosting is simply sharing passion to those you love and care for; it is an art form. I now realize that I will be hosting for the rest of my life; and gladly so.
You see, there are two dreams of mine that connect my innermost heart strings with passion and love.
The first takes place in Africa; because it is a place my heart has never left. It is this place that my desire to educate was first led. The people here resonate with me; they know that value of things that truly matter and what do not.
Clean water is important. Education is important. Family is important. AIDs prevention is important.
I could hardly imagine telling someone there, that video games or liposuction were of upmost importance. They would laugh, as though it were some great joke.
Is it not?
Inventions are tied to what one feels is important; what is needed within the community.
What inventions could be made to benefit Africa if the next generation were given the ability to do so? What inventions would create better drinking water, safer pregnancy and delivery, or more efficient farming?
Imposing English on another culture is never a way for progress; only cultural genocide. We witnessed this with our own native people. Songs, dances, and stories were lost. And with that, came the loss of importance among the people.
If I were to design anything in the world; it would be a place that accepted the world’s view of the least of us. I would create a place that would give an honest education and safe refuge; a place where children could be free to dream and design and create. I would open the doors to the impoverished, the orphans, the raped, and the child soldiers. For we should know by now; that it is these who have seen the darkest places and escaped. It is these that the world needs; because they can ignite change.
I would like to bring this way of thinking, back to the States as well.
We have lost what is important, and are in need of remembering.
If I could create anything here; it would be an educational and therapeutic institute. I would love to be part of a place, where young people could come and find themselves again through natural relationships.
Ideally, I would like to create a safe haven for retreats, hiking, camping, art, and horseback riding. There is something so intimate in learning from and sharing trust with an animal. This experience needs to be shared.
The youth are our future; they deserve to know that the world can be better and that they have the ability to make it so.
In teaching them; I can help make it so too.
Perhaps, someday, these two creations will connect. Perhaps not. Either way, I look forward to walking life and sowing light in the dark places.
I summarize my experience of this course with a simple gift. It is a gift with which my hands burned and painted. You see, I have learned that “if you fill your mind with a beautiful thought, there will be no room in it for an ugly one.” I hope that this gift finds an owner to spread this truth; an owner I know will plant blue flowers in the minds and hearts of those around them.
This is something worth leaving behind.
Photography is something that I have only recently picked up. However, it is one of my simplest pleasures and joys. I was honored to be able to capture moments and places special to our group. It was a way for me to creatively contribute, while reflecting on camera settings and composition. I was able to make changes where needed, and further grow in my skills, love, and knowledge.
Additionally, I kept a journal for every day of my personal practice. I had original thought that much of the dialog would only recap how my daily walk or run was back to myself. However, I discovered that being able to devote time being honest with yourself is a treasure.
I soon found myself recounting the day; and picking out the interconnectedness of everyday things. I found myself shifting focus to the positive things, and remembering each day more clearly than I would have otherwise. Because of this practice, I formed memories long withstanding my own mind.
In addition, I gained three key learnings from the course.
There is knowledge gained from everywhere, everything, and everyone.
Prior to Prescott College, I had the mindset that teacher and student were infinitely different. While the College, itself, has been slowly shifting this idea; this class abolished it completely.
The idea of permaculture treats those connected as equals. It is the fish that provides fertilizer to the plants, and the plants that oxygenate the water for the fish. It is the plants that bear food for man, and man who cares for the plants and the fish.
There is no scale of power here; only stewardship and care for a network of beings that would not be without the other.
If one listens and watches; the land can tell you more about the effect of rainfall or drought than any weatherman could. The horse would mirror aspects within you; you may have never reflected upon. And any person of any age can share ideologies and truth, you never knew existed.
Song brings people together; from every walk of life and every language.
I have yet to witness a place where people were not connected through song or poem.
Kate shared a poem she had learned in Wales; and though we did not know the language or the plot, our hearts and minds shared its beauty.
Erin, and those from Avalon, shared musical talent around a blazing campfire. With each song and strum, we grew in wonder and appreciation.
Joshua read to us; with the stars as our glittering canopy. With each sentence, we envisioned possibilities of a brighter future; and quotes to carry us towards this goal.
Each of us sang together, laughed together, and shared together. We created memories stuck tight like cinnamon roll hugs.
In every culture and every age; song sparks commonality.
There truly is an art to hosting.
I once had a view that hosting was an old fashioned thing. I pictured days prior to women’s suffrage, where those in buttoned dresses and frilled aprons cleaned, cooked, cleaned, and cooked all with a smile on their face for never ending, messy men. Similar to an infomercial, the idea of hosting greatly agitated me.
Then, I met women like Margaret who hosted through joy; Erin who hosted through song; and Kate who hosted through life lessons. And, my view permanently changed.
Hosting is simply sharing passion to those you love and care for; it is an art form. I now realize that I will be hosting for the rest of my life; and gladly so.
You see, there are two dreams of mine that connect my innermost heart strings with passion and love.
The first takes place in Africa; because it is a place my heart has never left. It is this place that my desire to educate was first led. The people here resonate with me; they know that value of things that truly matter and what do not.
Clean water is important. Education is important. Family is important. AIDs prevention is important.
I could hardly imagine telling someone there, that video games or liposuction were of upmost importance. They would laugh, as though it were some great joke.
Is it not?
Inventions are tied to what one feels is important; what is needed within the community.
What inventions could be made to benefit Africa if the next generation were given the ability to do so? What inventions would create better drinking water, safer pregnancy and delivery, or more efficient farming?
Imposing English on another culture is never a way for progress; only cultural genocide. We witnessed this with our own native people. Songs, dances, and stories were lost. And with that, came the loss of importance among the people.
If I were to design anything in the world; it would be a place that accepted the world’s view of the least of us. I would create a place that would give an honest education and safe refuge; a place where children could be free to dream and design and create. I would open the doors to the impoverished, the orphans, the raped, and the child soldiers. For we should know by now; that it is these who have seen the darkest places and escaped. It is these that the world needs; because they can ignite change.
I would like to bring this way of thinking, back to the States as well.
We have lost what is important, and are in need of remembering.
If I could create anything here; it would be an educational and therapeutic institute. I would love to be part of a place, where young people could come and find themselves again through natural relationships.
Ideally, I would like to create a safe haven for retreats, hiking, camping, art, and horseback riding. There is something so intimate in learning from and sharing trust with an animal. This experience needs to be shared.
The youth are our future; they deserve to know that the world can be better and that they have the ability to make it so.
In teaching them; I can help make it so too.
Perhaps, someday, these two creations will connect. Perhaps not. Either way, I look forward to walking life and sowing light in the dark places.
I summarize my experience of this course with a simple gift. It is a gift with which my hands burned and painted. You see, I have learned that “if you fill your mind with a beautiful thought, there will be no room in it for an ugly one.” I hope that this gift finds an owner to spread this truth; an owner I know will plant blue flowers in the minds and hearts of those around them.
This is something worth leaving behind.
You may be able to breathe alone, that doesn't mean you are alone.
Erica Masten
Earth she is sacred and if we treat her with the respect she deserves then we will understand her words and wishes. She is a living-breathing organism just like us. The better of a relationship we build with her, we build and learn our human cosmic experience.
Coming together to bring all our ideas went a lot smoother then I thought it would be. With having an amazing open minded class and with well thought out plans. All our ideas together were accomplished. It was unbelievable that we where able to pull this off. This class, this project has given me unshakeable belief that our world can come together and create something beautiful, pursuable, for the Mother Earth and Humans to finally be one. This class has made me realize huge ideas are more then possible to achieve. I am really thankful that we got to learn how to design as fifty-acre property in odder to make the green of the dessert live with in the lushness that it can provide with out hurting it. Why would we not want to live that way? Why wouldn’t we help Mother Earth live with in her glory? People are trying to survive with this “American Dream” and that is crumbling before our eyes. I cant wait for the day when that haunted American Dream is gone and we can look back on it and say to our self “What where we thinking”?
As our generation is building we are learning more and more how to do this whole “human thing”. Taking what we want and throwing out what doesn’t make sense. With the media we are able to find out what is happening around the world with in seconds. We are able to find out what works and doesn’t with just a click of a few buttons. We are fast learners that are capable to so much. I speak for myself but I can also speak for many that believe that this is true. We are doing our best learn how to build a new dream a “Earth Dream” where humans are reconnected to earth. Where Earth is not being hidden from pavement so she can breath with in her delight. Where her water, her blood can flow through all the crevasses there her whole body. Reconnected the waterways to bring it back to the ocean the heart. Our Generation is designed to make the unbelievable, unachievable, and doubtable words that are not in our language. We lead with clarity, grace, truth, roaring laugher, and so much more.
All these connections I just mentioned I have learned form my class. We needed all of our knowledge, wisdom and concerns to come together to bring what we brought to the table. Even though this was a test run of many more to come I know that we have bought more then just amazing design to follow Earth. We designed a strong unite that brought us together. That was able to send messages to the world that links a cosmic beam of light being awakened and ready.
Coming together to bring all our ideas went a lot smoother then I thought it would be. With having an amazing open minded class and with well thought out plans. All our ideas together were accomplished. It was unbelievable that we where able to pull this off. This class, this project has given me unshakeable belief that our world can come together and create something beautiful, pursuable, for the Mother Earth and Humans to finally be one. This class has made me realize huge ideas are more then possible to achieve. I am really thankful that we got to learn how to design as fifty-acre property in odder to make the green of the dessert live with in the lushness that it can provide with out hurting it. Why would we not want to live that way? Why wouldn’t we help Mother Earth live with in her glory? People are trying to survive with this “American Dream” and that is crumbling before our eyes. I cant wait for the day when that haunted American Dream is gone and we can look back on it and say to our self “What where we thinking”?
As our generation is building we are learning more and more how to do this whole “human thing”. Taking what we want and throwing out what doesn’t make sense. With the media we are able to find out what is happening around the world with in seconds. We are able to find out what works and doesn’t with just a click of a few buttons. We are fast learners that are capable to so much. I speak for myself but I can also speak for many that believe that this is true. We are doing our best learn how to build a new dream a “Earth Dream” where humans are reconnected to earth. Where Earth is not being hidden from pavement so she can breath with in her delight. Where her water, her blood can flow through all the crevasses there her whole body. Reconnected the waterways to bring it back to the ocean the heart. Our Generation is designed to make the unbelievable, unachievable, and doubtable words that are not in our language. We lead with clarity, grace, truth, roaring laugher, and so much more.
All these connections I just mentioned I have learned form my class. We needed all of our knowledge, wisdom and concerns to come together to bring what we brought to the table. Even though this was a test run of many more to come I know that we have bought more then just amazing design to follow Earth. We designed a strong unite that brought us together. That was able to send messages to the world that links a cosmic beam of light being awakened and ready.
The way we see the world
Photo Taken by Erica Masten
Featuring Rachel Johnson
Featuring Rachel Johnson
Final reflections Kane holloway
Three learning points-
the smallest adjustments to the environment can have drastic affects on both humans and nature. we learned this at deep dirt when we saw how simple one rock dams turned a harsh desert environment lush.
everything is interconnected- this was a core concept for me in the course as it allowed mapping everything out more of a purpose and allowed me to see even though I am just one person my actions do make a difference.
for change we need to focus on both the spiritual and physical aspects of life. neglecting one will be detrimental to the other.
my personal practice was a mix of reading and meditations
me reading gave my mind a break when it was overwhelmed by the high quantity of dense information. making me ready to receive more in future dates. the meditation was slightly more impotent as it is how i cataloged information and processed things based on effect and importance.
If i could do any project and new it would be successful i would try and find away to repair the gap between society and community as i find that having no seance of belonging in a community is one of the reasons that the world has fallen as far as it has and is why people only worry about material wealth. having a world community would make it where everyone was equity important and everyone would support eachother instead of having a nonstop strugle of who is most important
the smallest adjustments to the environment can have drastic affects on both humans and nature. we learned this at deep dirt when we saw how simple one rock dams turned a harsh desert environment lush.
everything is interconnected- this was a core concept for me in the course as it allowed mapping everything out more of a purpose and allowed me to see even though I am just one person my actions do make a difference.
for change we need to focus on both the spiritual and physical aspects of life. neglecting one will be detrimental to the other.
my personal practice was a mix of reading and meditations
me reading gave my mind a break when it was overwhelmed by the high quantity of dense information. making me ready to receive more in future dates. the meditation was slightly more impotent as it is how i cataloged information and processed things based on effect and importance.
If i could do any project and new it would be successful i would try and find away to repair the gap between society and community as i find that having no seance of belonging in a community is one of the reasons that the world has fallen as far as it has and is why people only worry about material wealth. having a world community would make it where everyone was equity important and everyone would support eachother instead of having a nonstop strugle of who is most important
Michael Aresty Final Reflection: An image I took of Arcosanti, a place that has huge aspirations and inspired me.
Permaculture for systemic change was a great class. I really got what I wanted out of it, which was less of a hands on and purely design class like I’d already taken. What I really wanted was to see how I could use the ideas of permaculture to redesign elements in my life as well as help to focus me as I move into the future and working instead of studying.
The first key aspect is that I learned how to collaboratively work with a group of people. This was a challenge as everyone has their own unique voice and perspective. The process of taking all these varied viewpoints and distilling them down to a point where you have only one product that 14 very different people all worked on is pretty incredible. now understand some ways that this collaborative process can take by the virtue of having gone through it in this class. I’m excited to apply some of the rapid prototyping and collaborative design elements I learned how to use in a business setting, i believe it can be a powerful tool.
In addition I am taking away from this class some design elements and philosophies that I have now looked at further than before. We had some pretty amazing teachers on our trip and we got to look at such varying scales and different ideologies behind permaculture that manifested itself in the world in such a caring amount of ways. This really showed me that you can use permaculture in so many aspects of life and to design so many ways of living, and that it isn’t just about a sustainable house and growing your own food.
Lastly, I really got to connect to a part of myself I don’t pay attention to as often as I perhaps should. I really got to be introspective and examine why I’m studying what I’m studying and examine why/if I feel the work I hope to do in the world is of importance and worth dedicating my life to. In addition I’ve gotten to look at how I redesign elements of my life through the lens of permaculture to have more of the desired impact that I would like to have on the world.
My personal practice was to be a vegetarian for a month. It was actually really easy for me (except for when I wake up to my roommate cooking bacon) and I am going to continue it into the future. I found that in addition to not being difficult for me to do that I feel really good, have lost some weight, and my diet now aligns more with my ethics and environmental awareness, which I feel really good about.
If I could design and facilitate any project, it would be to run a company that incorporates people care, fair share, and earth care into the entire business. This would be especially important around any products or services that are offered. Essentially, I’d like to help change the mentality of business is bad for the environment and treats people poorly. Id like to show that business can be used a force for doing good work in the world while also turning a profit.