The First Step

The air is chilly, the sun is out. Spring returns. This year's spring carries a new, refreshing message: a contraction in the economy gives us an opportunity to expand in understanding, connectedness, and appreciation—the best things in life are free. A walk in the garden reminds me that the life of the planet's deep wisdom continues, so far in spite of what we have been doing to wrestle control in order to quell our ancient fear of the dark forest. The possibility to shift our focus from the daily intensities to something slower, softer, gentler, brought on by the sudden loss of jobs, income, asset values, sits quietly awaiting our awareness. Conversations can become more honest when the noise of distractions has receded.

In this spirit, this journal of possibility begins like a new unexpected plant emerging in the Garden House soil. Those who have been here speak of tranquility, silence, peace, simplicity. The idea explored here is to share more of the Garden House story. You are encouraged to add your observations, experiences, and thoughts. For example—what a retreat or sanctuary may have given you on your road of life, whether at the Garden House or elsewhere—what delight you discovered on Orcas or elsewhere—what changes you want to enable, or see enabled, to preserve or protect or enrich the experience of being in a special place—what memories, photos, stories you have to offer the Garden House community. My plan is to offer stories, comments, ideas to give you more of a feel for what goes on on the ground, in my head, in the air. (The pictures of the flowers shown here were taken this morning.)

Welcome!