Category Archives: 2008

Rock Garden June 2008

Check out this text that Steve wrote in August 2008, especially the last sentences where he forecasts this spring in the garden.

Not long ago, one Tuesday afternoon, a young man passing by the Garden fence; paused briefly, and then stated confidently that, he knew that one day the City would come and take the garden away; from those who were tending to it.

This for sure had happened to other community gardeners before, and could happen
to this garden. But; it hadn’t happened over the past three years, or more that the Garden was, effectively, abandoned. So I couldn’t help but consider; just how much enjoyment of the space had been lost, by the community, over that time. And since by all reports it cannot happen for at least another two planting cycles, why waste the time on the speculation of ultimate loss? I really didn’t have time to deal with our naysayer: rushing to get in a late planting of peppers and tomatoes. But fortunately one of the other members addressed his issues with an invitation to come join the garden now. It was great; to have some one else stepping up for the garden!!  I knew that my singular pursuit of greater community participation, had succeeded.

I thought some more about how many people had missed the shaded respite under the fruit trees, because they didn’t believe that space belonged to them?  And why is it that the negative and pessimistic thoughts; like weeds, take root so easily? But, …Oh!!   the Inner Mind answered; “That’s why you need Gardeners!!!”  That Young Man was invited to return and share the joys of our Garden. And You are too!!

One day; I’m told, the Sun will expand and swallow up the Earth. Should Mankind stop striving to make life on Earth better?  And if One lives long enough you will lose many of
those you Love.  And many who Love you will lose you.  Is that any justification to not Love?

There is a Biblical saying,…better to light one candle; than curse the darkness.

In this neighborhood it is too late to live in paralyzed fear of displacement or rejection. It is time to take heart, make alliances, and start to build the landscape that will make our neighborhood more enjoyable tomorrow.

It was obvious to me; upon reflection, that the Young Man…could not hear the echoes in the winds; that an older Harlemite like I can still recall   DO FOR SELFAgitate, Educate, Organize!!!   Rise up You Mighty Nation!!.    Keep the Faith, Baby. How many prophets of Progress does a Community need to exorcise the Demons of
of Self Doubt?

We, who believe; will soon be breaking ground to prepare for an Explosion of Color ; here, next Spring. We will join us to prove:  Diversity Grows.

This large garden space has lots of potential.

Brother and sister team Max and Sage were pioneers in the garden and planted a wide variety of edibles quickly. They also made the best sign!