(Taken from a piece written earlier in November 2013)
When David was teaching Clay and I how to make the frames for a wooden cabinet he conveyed a sense of ease and serenity through the process. He would demonstrate by example and then leave us to finish that step in the process. At one point, David came over and pointed out that we had assembled the framebackwards. Clay and I felt overwhelmed by our mistake, but David calmly, yet swiftly, instructed us on how to correct our mistake.
David also taught us some basics in electrical work and gave us hands on experience with wiring outlets. When I cut off the cord to the skill saw he was very understanding and took it as an opportunity to show us how to fix busted electrical cords. From these and other experiences I have taken away both practical carpentry, electrical, and other construction skills, as well as mental and emotional development. I have improved my ability to think critically and practically in terms of designing and manifesting projects. By example, David has also taught me not to get frustrated with problems, to ask for help and/or guidance when I need it, and also to try and solve challenges with my own skills and imagination.
David, Clay, Cal, and Stone work together on furniture
After being at Garden Village for over a month, my body feels healthy and my mind more still than it has in a while. The simple diet- consisting of lots of root crops, rice and beans, vegitables, fresh and raw dairy from our neighbors, eggs from our chickens, and plenty of greens and fruits from the garden. Although I grew up in an intentional community, I have never experienced the process of taking full responsibility for my feelings, thoughts, words, and actions like I have here.
I encourage anyone who wants to live more simply, consciously, creatively, and communally, to visit Garden Village. Here we are immersed in the challenges and possibilities presented by the projects at hand. Whether we are constructing a piece of furniture, planting in the garden, sharing a meal together, or writing as the rain pours down, here you may experience a more open opportunity for full self expression if you choose.
At this stage in its development, Garden Village is a pristine place for young travelers and adventurous souls to visit. I can barely contain myself at the thought of all the beautiful people who will visit in the future. Susannah and David shared with us how they see themselves as stewards and guardians of this land, rather than owners, and they invited us to be stewards ourselves, and now I extend this invitation to you. I have felt cared for by the ways Susannah and David have nurtured us with food, skills, stories, silence, and a wisdom beyond words. Their gentle love often makes me feel humble and important at the same time.
Cache Stone Hunter
