As I mentioned before, I went to the Ringing Cedars of Russia conference this past weekend in Chicago. It was based on the series of books (featured to the right). I have to admit the books are a little bit out there but the conference was totally rewarding. It taught me so much about raising kids, gardening, and how nature is so perfect that almost all the answers we seek can be found there.
There were a couple really interesting facts I took away from it that I wanted to share with you so please read on...
Did you know that the Russian word for garden, "dacha", literally means "to give."
Compare that to the English word "farm" which literally means "to take."
There is this idea growing, especially in light of the current economic times, that people should get back to growing and eating their own food. This would certainly benefit individuals health and wallets and help the Earth to flourish. Some Americans might argue that we don't have the space or capability to do that here. But consider this...
In Russia where there is a severe climate and only 110 day growing season...
Gardeners, not farmers, use 28,800 square miles to grow 53% of the country's food.
In the United States individuals use 72,000 square miles of lawn to create a $25 billion lawn industry.
Seems like we have our priorities a little screwy.
This is inspiring me to get started this year. I am really going to start gardening. I may not be able to do a lot this season, but I am sure going to try. And I am determined to make my family, my lawn, my food, make a difference.
Will you join me?
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3 comments:
Very interesting, especially the "farm" and "garden" definitions.
Hey there, I ran across this idea on another blog, and I thought of you (and your use for the cassette holders).
http://www.designmom.com/
What an excellent post! I'm loving that an American is stating that the Russians are on to something! Brilliant Willo!
I'm going to have to get my hands on those books, Husband love reading that kind of stuff :)
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