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We have made some major leaps in our orchard garden this past month. Not in the least thanks to our volunteer helper, Jay, who was committed to helping Paul finish all the individual projects that were on our list for this month. More land has been cleared, trees have been pruned, more trees have been planted, cover crop has been sowed, a layout has been made for our herbal garden, a path has been created and the kitchen garden area is ready for planting. And whilst all this was going on, nature was doing its magic underneath the mulch...
After about three months the earth that was arid and lifeless is now beautiful spongy soil with countless earth worms. Building soil is what it’s all about in regenerative agriculture, bringing the soil back to life so it can feed the plants and create healthy food. Healthy soil is the foundation for all life. It contributes to all life forms, is a good water catchment and prevents erosion, flooding and other environmental hazards.
The importance of healthy soil is becoming increasingly clear to more and more people. Fertilisers and monoculture may grow food but will never supply the necessary nutrients for a well balanced meal and above all creates dependancy and it will not support the diversity that is required for a healthy ecosystem.
I strongly believe in the power of ideas. I am equally fascinated by the fact that our current reality, based on the importance of economic growth, is a story that we have invented and have agreed to believe. Like all stories this is in fact a figment of our imagination which we will believe until the web of meaning unravels and we create a new reality. Although these are very long processes there are increasing signs that we may be on the brink of a radical change.
Every now and then an idea can be distributed by a film in such a way that it creates a possible new reality that appeals to our imagination. The Biggest Little Farm is one of those films. The breathtaking cinematography takes us into the story of John and Molly Chester who trade city living for a 200 acres of barren farmland. They have a dream to harvest in harmony with nature and we follow them in their eight year quest. The harsh realities, tough decisions and their insights and discoveries on their path are painful and beautiful all at once.
The Biggest Little farm is not so little when we imagine it 200 times the size of Back to La Tierra! The project is huge and overwhelming but the size allows sufficient opportunity to eventually create a natural balance. I hope you take the time to watch the movie. It can be purchased online and is showing in movie theaters all around.
It will not surprise you that this film touched our hearts. We decided to come Back to la Tierra because we wanted a life of reconnection. We imagined sharing our ideas of regenerative farming, learning something new everyday, starting conversations and above all making connections.
It turns out many of you really like the idea and are understanding the importance of it.
Six months into our project and we are noticing that we are not only building soil but building deep relationships.
Thank you to all for your trust and support!
Hasta la vista,
Paul & Marina
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