Written by Denise Deby.
This blog has always aspired to be solutions-focused. We try to provide practical information, but we also hope to change the narratives around environmental challenges, so that the framing of problems leads not just to despair but to ways forward.
Sometimes, that’s a walk in the park. Other times, it’s hard, especially when the horror and injustice that our world–and our city–sometimes manifest become overwhelming.
Local herbalist and educator Amber Westfall, in her wonderful blog The Wild Garden, wrote a moving post recently about taking inspiration and strength during difficult times from the wild things that grow in nature. Her dandelion, with its ability to “crumble concrete” and heal damaged earth, provides a beautiful and hopeful metaphor for improving an unjust and unsustainable world, even through small acts. Here’s a link to the post, Resist: http://www.thewildgarden.ca/blog/resist
Nature is resilient because of its diversity. This past week in Ottawa, we’ve witnessed heartbreak and deep divisions. We’ve also seen people come together to mourn, insist on solutions and find, in their diversity, the strength to demand change and create a better way.
That’s what keeps me hopeful.
Green Living Ottawa 