“There is peace
in tilling the soil,
planting the seed,
and harvesting the crop.
Hands in the soil,
hearts to God”
My friend Sheri Carlson, shared this quote with me – 2/15/08 - She does not know the author of the quote. I searched online for the author with no success. Please add to the comments if you know the author.
Al and I know the "peace of tilling the soil." My family history has roots as Eastern Oregon wheat farmers. My father had a degree in Agronomy, the science of soil management and crop production. He spent 30 years as an OSU Extension agent helping the wheat farmers in several counties of Oregon. My Father and Mother always had large, beautiful gardens at every home they owned. Al's family also had large beautiful gardens and flowers at their homes. Helping our parents in their gardens was part of our lives. Growing up with the beauty of flowers and plants gave us the desire to be surrounded by the beauty of plants in our homes. I am especially thankful for the beauty that Al creates in our gardens with his Moss Baskets.
Photos: Al creating his famous Moss Baskets - 4/27/07Al's Tulip Moss Baskets - 5/7/07
4 comments:
Hi Pati,
I love how your photos work so well with your story. I can't wait to be outside enjoying the flower you share so powerfully.
Yesterday, at a workshop we wrote with the Marge Piercy poem, To Be of Use". It's not exactly your poem but it reminds me of it. Let me know if you agree.
Bonnie
Bonnie,
Thank you for sharing your knowledge of Marge Piercy's poem, "To Be of Use." http://www.americanpoems.com/poets/Marge-Piercy/17193
Yes. I agree Marge Piercy's poem is very similar to the quote today with the symbolism of working in the dirt, "People who submerge in the task..." whatever task that may be in their life. To do the work of life to create beauty, whether it be a beautiful basket of flowers, a clean house, or a wonderful poem life Marge Piercy's.
I love this post. Those baskets are so nice, and the tulips are gorgeous.
Just wanted to say that I enjoy your blog & your photos are beautiful! I'd like to see Oregon someday. I don't know the author of the poem, but it has a Shaker sound..."hands to work, hearts to God." -Karen in Ohio
Post a Comment