The Earth has worked for me

By Freddie Anderson, 2018 Earthworks Agriculture Training participant

In Genesis, the Lord states: "Behold, I have given you every herb bearing seed, which is upon the face of all the earth, and every tree, in the which is the fruit of a tree yielding seed; to you it shall be for meat." 

But for me, an understanding of that concept entails how God has connected man and earth, with the earth having restorative and healing capacities for man. Through this I have gained a deeper knowledge and appreciation for the Capuchin community. The relationship between man and earth is not unlike the relationship between householders, or laypeople, and the Capuchin friars. 

The Capuchin friars enlighten us householders. The friars come into our "household" and provide enlightenment concerning spiritual matters. For householders busy with matters of maintaining the household, the friars provide spirtiual nourishment, out of compassion.

Lastly, I want to say thank you to the Capuchins and Earthworks for reminding me what God has provided for us. And that is the healing herb, or food, that she will give us. If we plant the seed, and when we partake in the beneficence of mother earth, with gratitude, we gain knowledge and that is how the earth has worked for me. Thank you very much.