WOW! That's one way to put the entire experience. The things I learned in our time in Vermont were things that I'll carry with me for as long as I live. We humans learn by doing and not only that but by working together (you know with real people) and sharing information, sharing experience, thus sharing the "fruit" of our labors. Many of the things I feel that had a great impact on me were not just the informative classes, but in a quieter way, just sitting down to delicious, simple home-cooked meals with many people you know very little about, but knowing that you see eye to eye about something, and just enjoying good company, good food and good music. Sounds so simple but being back now, getting into routine of work, and the busy-ness of "making a living", it's easier said than done. We sink back into our routines of survival within the model of constant, upward economic growth and we lose the healing power of connecting with the earth and with people. My eyes are open, "the eagle has landed". Now I just want to get involved, get my hands dirty, sign up for volunteer work with watershed groups, plant a garden, build a shed, see more friends...It's going to be a challenge, but not without reward. I only wish I was thinking of sustainability years ago but I guess it's never too late. Now is a great time, actually.
