I sit in the tool shed of the garden with dirt stained clothes and fingernails painted the color of earth with a computer on my lap. I ask what managing the Ashram garden means.

Every day I establish strong healthy roots in the harbor of the Ashram’s fertile soil. The Ashram provides space for exploration, and discovery allows me to reconnect with an essential part of myself. My roots grow stronger as I learn how to care for my inner garden. I weed out the destructive thoughts that crowd out my cultivated intentions. The intelligence and determination of the weeds is inspiring, and I relearn the lesson of persistence.

Spiritual gardening starts with an intention. It is a state of mind; a way of being-in-the-world (in the work). Over the last few weeks we have spent a lot of time preparing the soil in the garden: an ostensibly simple substance needed to sustain life. This dynamic micro-cosmos thrives with billions of living creatures at work, every second decomposing and regenerating, eager to support new life.     

Recently, in the green house watering plants, I noticed that the squash roots, completely unseen two hours earlier, now had inch tall plants with two leaves on them. I asked myself: "is that what it means to cooperate with my evolution? To create growth by rooting in a protected environment?" The transformation of a seed cannot be forced. It holds inside all of the potential to grow into a vital being, and this process of change must be nurtured with patience, intuitive care, and mindfulness.

As I cultivate my heart garden I carefully plant seeds and there is no room for doubt in my mind. The fertile soil of the Ashram is nourishing my soul, the seeds watered with love, and awakened by Light.

Each day my senses are refreshed by the Light at the Ashram, and they open to new possibilities of engaging with the world. My hands touch the earth and the scent of spring rain lingers- gratitude overwhelms my entire being. I am truly blessed to have found a spiritual home.

I am grateful each day to be at the Ashram which provides a greenhouse for the growth of my soul. A protected environment providing all the requirements to connect, and to deeply understand my purpose.            

Chrissie Hodel is the Ashram’s Garden manager this summer. She completed the 2006 YDC, and is considering remaining at the Ashram as a Karma Yogi for the next year. Chrissie envisions co-ordinating a sustainable farm, healing, and education centre in the future, and sees managing the Ashram Garden as an opportunity to glean experience toward her future dream.