“Vision is not seeing things as they are but as they will be”
We can have a positive impact on inevitable change by carefully observing, and then intervening at the right time.
The butterfly is a positive symbol of transformative change in nature, from its previous life as a caterpillar. The proverb “vision is not seeing things as they are but as they will be” reminds us that understanding change is much more than a linear projection.
Planting for change
An autumn harvest selection of quince, pear, pomegranate and strawberry guava. As the seasons change so do the fruits we eat. With over 50 varieties of fruiting trees at Fair Harvest there’s something delicious to eat at all times of the year. With climate change affecting us all in different ways it is wise to observe the performance of a diversity of species to discover plants that best respond to the changing conditions, spreading the risk of some failures each year.
‘Planting for change’ photo and accompanying text contributed by Jodie Lane, featured in the 2013 Permaculture Calendar.
Principle 12: Creatively use & respond to change
Totnes, the nut tree capital of Britain
‘Transition Town Totnes is organising to produce more of our food locally. These nut tree plantings are within the town area, and each tree is cared for by a tree guardian who tends it and makes sure it is doing OK. We see opportunities to relocalise our food supply through strengthening connections with local farmers, supporting home food growing, and public food trees.’
Photo and accompanying text contributed by Rob Hopkins
Co-operate
‘Nelson, British Columbia, has built a strong, democratic and community-owned alternative economy. Co-operative thinking permeates the community’s approach to localisation, with co-operatives for transport, food, radio and banking; as well as “cow-shares” and Canada’s first grain-focused community supported agriculture scheme. One local talked about the pleasure of conducting all of your daily transactions through community owned enterprises.’
Photo and accompanying text contributed by Joel Catchlove.
Inside the Bee House
Each wall of this hexagonal home under construction is different, artistically designed and created from local natural and discarded materials. Juliano and Teresa ran out of money after completing the foundations. Creative thinking led them to use discarded tyres, bottles, salvaged timber and glass, bush poles, clay and sand. Commitment, enthusiasm, love, and community engagement enable Juliano and Teresa to achieve so much with great joy and little money.
Photo contributed by Juliano Riciardi and was taken in Santa Catarina, Brazil.
