Today was my annual trek with my Mom and Knox to attend the Winter Conference of the Northeast Organic Farmer's Association (NOFA) ~ a self-described non-profit association of farmers, gardeners, and consumers working to promote an economically viable and ecologically sound Vermont food system for the benefit of current and future generations. This year marks the 40th birthday of NOFA Vermont ~ an organization of 1200 members that is gaining in size and popularity in the state, such that the conference outgrew it's former host, Vermont Technical College and is now held on the University of Vermont campus in Burlington. This is an event we look forward to all winter, braving the brisk winter wind off Lake Champlain to tromp around in the snow attending workshops.
It is difficult to put into words all that this conference provides for me. It's an opportunity to gain knowledge on topics of interest from the varied and colorful speakers that host workshops throughout the day. This year it was information on the potential benefits of using cover crops, instruction on composting and we heard from a speaker who is starting a movement to bring back the homemaker in our culture! It's a marketplace for the latest information, cutting edge books and tools of the trade. There is always a lovely meal provided consisting of locally grown foods, creatively prepared for us to share.
All of these things contribute so much to me... but there is something that is of even greater value. It's a time when I can come together with my people. People who have a similar vision as I, of returning to a simpler way of life. People who find value in nothing... as in no thing... as in less materialism and instead focusing on a more sustainable way of life. People who walk gently on the earth, with respect and the intention of leaving our planet better off for their having been there. I love it that now, when I attend these events, I see people that I know! And I am known... I am part of this community that I hold in such high regard. People who are making an impact by having less of an impact and who are educating and implementing change and leading by example.
Time spent with this community leaves me recharged, refreshed, motivated and excited for Spring to arrive so that I can once again connect with the land and all of God's creations, to do good work to improve the lives of my family and loved ones and my global community. I come away with my mind full of ideas to implement and new visions for our land and our enterprises and our family. But even more importantly, participating in this event leaves me feeling a little less odd for not following the norm... more at peace in my soul about the new path I am walking and the new life I am creating. And most importantly... deeply and profoundly grateful for all that I have been blessed with in this life.
