What Makes Michelle Obama Shine?

"If women themselves take the next step to live who they really are, then they can contribute to the changes taking place around us." Hilary Hart

Throughout history, the Sacred Feminine has been compared to a gem. As we know, a jewel has many facets, and Michelle Obama reflects one of them. With clarity of purpose, she exemplifies that natural, radiant style of leadership our Sisters communicate who feel free to express the truth of who they are. Both their way of authentically being themselves and the nature of their simple contributions restore our faith in humanity. Women who lead in the Way of the Feminine whisper to our heart. The world is a better place with them in it. People who are not afraid of living with an awakened heart, who are not threatened by accusations that this may mean they've lost their mind, inspire. In a word, Michelle Obamas's got heart. In a world gone awry with accusatory, blustery talking heads, America's First Lady goes about her business with clear and open heart, as well as forthright words, deeds. By example, like Hestia, she provides a living portrait of comfort in the storm.

Source of fascination. Around the world, it is not uncommon to overhear people say: "I feel like I know her, and she knows me. She seems familiar, comfortable, and natural." Why is this? Yes, Michelle Obama demonstrates the five cross-cultural essential behaviors contained in the spelling of the word heart:

1) welcomes us to Hearth and Home
2) Embraces the earth
3) Accepts the importance of showing Affection
4) Relates in refreshing, reassuring ways
5) Taps the Teachable Moment

Her capacity for connection is palpable. She's opened the White House in ways we've never seen before, believing, as does her husband, they live in the 'people's house.' We've seen photos of her groundbreaking the White House lawn alongside our children, in order to plant, educate, and encourage the importance of sharing what comes from the earth with the next generations. In venues like Miriam's Kitchen, some weeks ago, as well as with working mothers, and with military families, we've seen her relate in genuine, compassionate ways. By example, she taps the essential, the small, reminding us that we are not here on this earth to be grand or alone, but to share the moment through love. Mother Teresa understood:
"I don't do big things. I do small things with big love."

Historically, Hestia's been known as the goddess of the hearth. Michelle seems one of her daughters. In ways we've not seen before, she communicates an air of greater accessibility, and less mystique. No doubt the fact that she's got young children, and her mama, on board, helps that feeling of something strangely familiar. Regardless your politics, its hard to dismiss the appeal of a woman who's so grounded in who she is that she can welcome her mother onto the stage with nothing less than gratitude and admiration, and who can let go her own professional persona, embracing the change before her with open, well-toned arms. She's a marvelous example of that sort of woman who's beyond needing to prove herself, to 'get somewhere' other than where she is. Throughout human history, it has been the women who've worn this mantle who inspire us to be our own best selves, to give it all we've got. I love how Ani Tenzin Palmo puts it: "I think it was the Buddha's intention that in order to attain liberation, you have to give it all you've got."

Giving It All We've Got.

Those of us, who have been pointing to the necessity of the return of the Feminine Spirit, if we are to make decisions which honor heart Wisdom, as well as the head knowledge, are smiling. Increasingly, we are seeing bits of evidence that Big Mama is on her way. She lives in endless forms of awakening men and women all over the world, those, like Michelle, who are standing in the truth of who they are. Through simple, humane vulnerability and relatedness, we return attention to one another. Myosho Virginia Matthews puts it beautifully: "In the vastness of love we can really meet each other."

The Feminine psyche is known for its comfort with vulnerability, including during times like these, when we face new frontiers. It's known for its organic connection with the finding unexpected beauty through our relation with the everyday earthly. David Whyte reminds me of a painting I once saw hanging in the Chicago Art Museum entitled "The Song of the Lark." The moment I saw the photographs of Michelle and the school children digging away in the earth to lay the foundation for their vegetable garden, the experience of this work of art came to mind. The artist welcomes us into a world that juxtaposes hard, earthy work, with the rapturous look of one who has found beauty in the song of a lark, whilst she's got grime beneath her fingernails, and is immersed in difficult labor. In her pause, with scythe in hand, she helps us feel that sort of Presence that reminding you that beauty co-exists, no matter how uncultivated, foreign our new frontier may be. Like America's 'First Mom', this woman has her feet well planted on terra firma. In the willingness to give beauty its due, in the face of hard labor, heaven is found on earth.

By way of contrast, check out politicians and what we used to call 'big men on campus' caught in their blame games. Whereas those who carry the Sacred Feminine dig into what's at our feet, do what needs doing to bring forth what nourishes, replenishes, inspires. The fact is that Sophia's Wisdom is showing up in her daughters, and this casts them in a very becoming light. Seen as the "Mother of Humanity," the Sophia archetype reminds us that 'all is well,' regardless outer appearances. She is the essence of what His Holiness; the Dali Lama calls "The Compassionate Heart."

Michelle stands in the center of what is greater than her, a reality, in itself, which makes one shine. Oswald Chambers reminds us:
"...It is inbred in us that we have to do exceptional things for God; but we have not. We have to be exceptional in the ordinary things, to be holy in mean streets, among mean people, and this is not learned in five minutes."

Michelle Obama, one of Sophia's many daughters, understands. She is a 'Heart Whisperer.'

What does your heart whisper? What heart-seed would you like to plant? What if you were to ground break by planting a pot with seeds that represent your devotion? Consider a perennial, or two. Imagine what might be possible if you became a gardener to the whisper of your heart! I'd love to hear from you and your friends, and welcome all you're willing to share/bring. Come on by!

In the spirit of this piece, I am starting a Facebook group later this week called "The Heart Whisperers." Let's gather, and grow as we focus on living more heart-based, joyful, 'song of the lark' lives together, and shine on! Love, Cara

 

Follow Dr. Cara Barker on Twitter: www.twitter.com/DrCaraBarker

Comments

[Bettie Spruill]

12:53 AM on 04/10/2009

Cara,

I so appreciate how you used the word "sister". I consider Mrs. Obama my sister, not because we have the same skin color, but because we have the same heart. And, I must admit that when I see her, I like looking at my own brown skin.

I also recognize her as the Egyptian goddess Isis, President Obama as Osiris -her husband and the nation as Horus - her son. isis, as the Great Mother has one purpose and one purpose only : all in her charge wake up to their divine nature. Isis is the force to create and Osiris is the focus...th­ey are interdepen­dent. The exquisite interplay between the two is creation and beauty. Creation and beauty is what I witness when I observe the President and Mrs. Obama.

Thanks for your wisdom and knowledge of the metaphors for the masculine and feminine. I am convinced that until there is a marriage of the two, there cannot be peace.

Infinite love and blessings,

Your sister Bettie

[Elyce Monet]

06:32 PM on 04/01/2009

Ahhh, Ms. Cara! What a lovely article from one of the most lovely women I know! Speaking of the Divine Feminine, while our lovely First Lady Michelle is exhibiting these qualities, you EMBODY them and TEACH them to other women like me! I'm so glad you are my sister and friend.

For everyone who doesn't know it, Dr. Cara Barker will be speaking on the Divine Feminine this May 29-30-31 at The Radisson Hotel with 17 other world renowned speakers. The event is hosted by World Leaders Alliance, and Cara is certainly a world leader. It's only $97 for 3 days and 18 remarkable speakers. Where else can you get more into your authentic self? Nowhere I know! Informatio­n on Cara's appearance can be found at www.worldl­eadersalli­ance.com.

[2morrowKnight]

03:58 AM on 03/29/2009

Wow. Wow. Wow. This has to be the most awe-inspir­ing, most captivatin­g, most moving piece on First Lady Michelle Obama I've ever read. She is indeed worth every word you've included in your lovely post. I was struggling recently to come up with a spirituall­y uplifiting post to write on Michelle Obama for Women's History Month (March). I must say, you've done my work for me. You've got the touch.

This post made my day!

[Dr. Cara Barker]

10:55 AM on 03/29/2009

Well, 2morrowKni­ght, we are on the same wave length, then, in our appreciati­on of Michelle Obama. But, listen, I'd love to read your piece. I just have the feeling that I can learn from you! Will you come by and let me know when yours is posted? I'd love to come for a visit. There is no way to have too much written on articles for Women's History Month. The more the merrier!

Let me hear from you. Meanwhile, have a sweet Sunday, with all that renews,
Cara
P.S. Why not hop on board our Facebook group, "The Heart Whisperers­"? Hopefully, after dinner tonight my daughter can help me figure out the IT to do it!!!!!!!!­!!!!!! As you can see, I need all the help I can get!

[2morrowKnight]

08:45 AM on 03/30/2009

Ok, I'll send my piece to you when its done this evening. I'll post is first on my blog: http://2mo­rrowknight­.blogspot.­com/. And, I'll let all of my friends know about what you're doing on Facebook. I'll join your group today. I'll get it done today because I love your post above. And I love your spirit.

Oh, are you on twitter? Contact me at Twitter.co­m/2morrowk­night. Or Myspace.co­m/2morrowk­night.

[OldKnute]

09:16 PM on 03/28/2009

Here’s what I asked myself,,,, considerin­g my Vote.

A,, DARK stormy night,,, an emergency,­,, you must attend to a relative in hospital,,­, A crisis.

What to do with your two children??­?????

The neighborho­od flashes in your mind. Who can you turn to?

There is the ranch,,, Laura and George,, the large cabin,,, Lynn and Richard,,, the mansion on the hill,, John and Cindy,,, the condo,, Sarah and Todd,,, the very nice home of Jill and Joe,,, and the home in the middle of the block, the Obamas’ place,, Barack and Michelle.

We know that Jill and Joe would see that nothing would happen to harm the kids,, Joe would give his life before he would see any harm come to them. No fear at showing up at the Bidens doorstep,, unannounce­d. They would understand­. You just know it in your heart.

The Obamas? A warm bed would await your children,, tucked in with a hug and a kiss,, reassuranc­es,,, all will be fine. Barack to sit out the night,,, near the phone,,, awaiting any news,, praying it will be good news. Michelle checking on the kids,, regularly,­, and rubbing Barack’s shoulders, making tea as they await your return. In the morning,,,­, all the kids playing together,, your children kept safe, tummies full of a hot breakfast,­,, welcoming your return,, the crises past,, hugs all around,,, reunited.

Everyone overjoyed, tearful at the good news,,, all is fine.

Now,, guess how I voted?

All the best

Knute

[Dr. Cara Barker]

11:50 PM on 03/28/2009

Dear Knute,

My husband and I just returned after a very long, but full with gratifiyin­g service. So, my friend, I opened the HP to see what might be here. Your painting with words is just so heart-warm­ing, so real, so replenishi­ng. Bless you for taking the time to share what is in your heart. You do this authentica­lly, and in such a deeply connected way.

Please know that you are a Light in the darkenss that is on this earth. Much appreciati­on for the love you carry in your heart, the courage you hold in your gut, and your wonderous voice.

Sweet dreams,
Cara

[OldKnute]

03:15 PM on 03/29/2009

Well,,, Dr. Cara,, It is a “Two-Fer” thing,,, to me. Two for the price of one. Such a DEAL!

After 8 years,, we see the effects of a FORCED absence of the Feminine. Perhaps this explains my fascinatio­n with Greek Mythology. The “Divine Feminine” was neither repressed nor underestim­ated in influence or power.

From Wall Street to the Pentagon, from the Board Room to the War Room,, women have been absent or their voices CRUSHED or co-opted by FEAR. We now see the results of this orgy of testostero­ne. War, Greed, impulsive, myopic decision making, with no considerat­ion of ,,,, LONG TERM,,, sustainabi­lity.

I equate it to RAPE! Violent, EVIL and only for purposes of dominance, exploitati­on and immediate gratificat­ion.

Rape of the EARTH!
Rape of our most sacred traditions­.
Rape of our Economy and Family Incomes.
Rape of our respect, dignity and honor.
Rape of the poor, elderly and defenseles­s, of our childrens future.
Rape of our LAWS, Constituti­on, and Dreams of Equality for,, ALL.

I do NOT see Michelle as a passive, retiring, “Dinner Planer”.
Not the woman behind the man,, but BESIDE HIM.

Equal, respected, WISE, honored, called upon for advice and direction, emotional support in times of crises, an advocate, a competent, educated,,­,, careful minded strategist­,,,, A TRUE,,,, LIFE PARTNER.

IF,, as I suggest,, GREED has declared war on the Poor and Middle Class, providence intercedes­,,, granting our prayers.

We have a new Champion,,­, Michelle Obama!

All the best

Knute

[Myview2751]

10:56 AM on 03/28/2009

I enjoyed Dr. Cara Barker's article "What Makes Michelle Obama Shine?" It was one of the most beautifull­y, well thought out and inspiring articles I have ever read about First Lady Michelle Obama. It resonated with me on many different levels, the spiritual, the social and the environmen­tal etc. It gave voice to those pure places buried deep within our hearts that are rarely shared. Places free of sophistica­tion and formality. The simple raw and core places where our humanity lives. It spoke to our connectedn­ess. Dr. Cara Barker called First Lady Michelle Obama a "Heart Whisperer.­" and she is what the Dali Lama calls, "The Compassion­ate Heart." Dr. Cara Barker is right on target!
Some of the quotes that stood out are as follows. Oswald Chambers,"­It is imbred in us that we have to do exceptiona­l things for God; but we have not. We have to be exceptiona­l in the ordinary things, to be holy in mean streets, among mean people, and this is not learned in five minutes.
Myosho Virginai Matthews," In the vastness of love we can really meet each other."
Mother Teresa, "I don't do big things, I do small things with love."

[Dr. Cara Barker]

11:56 PM on 03/28/2009

Myview2751­, I have no idea who your are beyond your screen name. But, whoever you are, know that your essence, your sense of humanity is stunningly beautiful. Bless you, many times over, for taking the time to share who you are with me. Yours is the kind of consciousn­ess that reminds us all that we are not alone.

I never know, when I write, or speak, if it will 'land.' So often, through my 60+ years, I've known my way is simple. Despite the years of training, etc, etc., I've come round again and again that my Way in the world is what it is, and no more. Please know that you've given me a precious, precious gift in a world hellbent in going in too many directions in warp speed: with you, I am heard.

Let us be grateful, together, that we have someone like Michelle reminding us to be the best version of ourselves that is humanly possible.

Love an blessings your way. Don't be a stranger! Let me know how you are.
Cara

[DragonFly]

10:52 AM on 03/28/2009

It's comical to watch militant opponents of the Obama administra­tion pecking about in search of something/­anything they can smear Michelle with (the 'bare arms flap' bares witness to this laughable fact) as they attempt to chip away at the public's faith and admiration for our newly elected President.

- Because if 'guilt by associatio­n' is to be believed in, then so is 'adoration by associatio­n'. -

Michelle has handed the smoke blowers a Rubic's cube by calmly living a life of unwavering­, purposeful servitude.

[Dr. Cara Barker]

12:00 AM on 03/29/2009

You amaze me, DragonFly! Whenever I see your writing, there is this beautiful, beautiful consistenc­y of telling the truth as it is. You strike me as someone who is not only sensitive to the bigger picture, but reflective in a way that makes it safe for people to broaden their perspectiv­e. Of course, I couldn't agree more with what you say. But, what I appreciate is your nobility, your courageous heart in how you give voice to your Voice.

It is so good to hear from you. Stay in touch. Let me know how you are doing. I appreciate who you are more than you know.

Joy and peace,
Cara

[DragonFly]

08:13 AM on 03/29/2009

Permit me to return your compliment with a compliment­, Dr. Barker.

You clearly understand the power of words and have a deep pool of compassion to draw from - as evidenced by your article and comments.

And that you take the time to respond to each and every commenter with such thoughtful­ness is inspiring - and deserving of a big cyber hug.

[PlayTOE]

10:19 AM on 03/28/2009

When I first glimpsed Michelle Obama (You Tube vid) I first noticed she is blindingly intelligen­t, dedicated to her children, loves them and loves her husband. Later I realized she is also a totally hot looking beauty.

Men commonly notice physical beauty first, then later consider the things about a woman that really matter. Michelle is an uncommon woman.

Each first lady defines her own job. Michelle explained she would be "mom in chief" which is a very humble position for a Harvard educated lawyer to take. Especially one who delivers really powerful political speeches.

Mothers lead family life by example. Mothers do the day to day necessary work. Mothers love. Well, good mothers do, but few live up to the imposable standards of being a perfect mother.

Michelle took time to settle her children in school and organize the white house with "common" affordable decor.
Then she visited military families & a soup kitchen, not making speeches, but serving.

In her garden she didn't direct others but shared connection to soil. We need plants. We depend on plants. Mother nature and "First Mom" Michelle connect us to our roots. It was not about her, it was an opportunit­y for children to learn.

Michelle is brilliant, talented and has especially beautiful arms, official portrait arms. Arms free to hug. Fit strong arms that do a lot of work. And there you have the secret of Michelle. What makes her shine.

She does a lot of work.
With love.

[Dr. Cara Barker]

10:34 AM on 03/28/2009

Hi, PlayTOE,

Wow! Do you know what a gift you gave this Saturday morning? I was having a heck of a time getting mobilized, (it seems to take more ooomph in my sixties) to go down to Quest Field in Seattle this weekend and set up for the N.W. Women's Show. So, to take a moment first for myself, I checked into the HP to see what was brewing.

Your writing, your awareness, your sense of things is the best coffee in the world. If you aren't writing profession­ally, you might want to consider it. You, my dear, have 'nailed' it.

Many thanks for taking your time this Saturday. Many thanks for being you. Know that it would be a delight to have you drop by for future articles. The next few weeks will be a continuati­on of this conversati­on, with some new threads, based on comments people have made.
Blessings, and hugs, too!
Cara

[mamacat]

06:18 AM on 03/28/2009

Whatever makes her shine, I wish they would bottle it and sell it! Michelle is a great combinatio­n of everything that anyone could want.

[Dr. Cara Barker]

10:21 AM on 03/28/2009

Wouldn't that be great, mamacat!

Seriously, the essence of your idea actually goes back to alchemy. Symbolical­ly, the idea was a teaching in transformi­ng unconcious­ness to consciousn­ess (see Maria Louise van Franz, Edward Edinger, Carl Jung.) An essential aspect was creating the 'container­,' ie holding place as well as safe space, in which to awaken our hearts and redirect our deeds to that which contribute­s from our wholeness.

That said, the bottling of what M.O. exudes would be dandy! Hmmmmmmmm, maybe a new perfume line?

All the best,
Cara

[Ray Blanchard]

02:11 AM on 03/28/2009

I agree with your assessment on Michelle Obama's authentici­ty. What makes her authentic to me
is her clarity on what she stands for. Standing solid with a purpose makes one strong and radiant.
I think Mrs. Obama took her stand as a person many years ago, and she has not wavered in midst of celebrity or criticism. That is knowing who you are, and it is also character! Her character does not depend on her husband or whom she is with, it is steady inclusive or in spite of that. These certainty is what is so evident. As well, it makes hersure footed enough not to have to defend, but to be flexible enough to listen and learn. She is a "shining" example of what anyone can aspire to be.

Thank you for noticing who she is, and for giving us a lesson on the goddess energy. I am delighted to know more about the essential qualities of women, and I look forward to us men sharing more on our divine and heroic qualities as well. Let's keep learning together..­. See you around the horn. I am looking forward to seeing you and hearing you present at the Super Seminar in LA. maybe you can tell everyone about that, so we can all get together and share our wisdoms. I hear it will be awesome with lots of other incredible people in your circle.

I love you. One of your biggest fans.... RVB

[Dr. Cara Barker]

10:28 AM on 03/28/2009

Great to hear from you, Dr. Ray!!!!!!!­!!!!!!!!!!­! Yes, yes, yes to all that you say. It is that sort of essential grounding that M.O. demonstrat­es that is a splendid example of what can happen when each of us steps up, does the work of becoming who we really are, as opposed to settling for someone else's idea. She is a shining example, to us also, of working together is where its at!

This is one of the things that excites me so much about the second Super Seminar (Super Seminar II) we are doing in the Los Angelas area the end of May, (last weekend) just around the corner. What a wonderful experience the first one was last October: people from all over the world coming together, not in fear, but with clear thinking and open hearts and minds to actually create better lives. As you and I know, Ray, this is a lifelong process! But, what could be more fun???????­??

See you soon! Love and appreciati­on,
Cara

[2008FedUP]

02:18 PM on 03/27/2009

She is surely a role model for ALL women and girls worldwide. Finally, a breath of fresh air and feminine transparen­t class. We needed this after the last 8 years of the woman that we STILL don't know much about. And.......­.........n­o public genuine hugs to people.

[Dr. Cara Barker]

06:01 PM on 03/27/2009

I'm with you, 2008FedUP. If there ever were a time for us to witness a model of Feminine connectedn­ess, this is surely that time. And, hey, let's get on the bandwagon and see what we can do to spread the example by our actions, too. We've got 'a room pass,' so, I say, let's 'go to town.'

Great to hear your voice. Thanks for checking in. Stay tuned. I'm developing this as a series over the next few weeks and would love to have your input, and spirit on board.

A blessed weekend your way,
Cara

[Pupadup4oBama]

06:55 PM on 03/27/2009

I wonder if Mrs. Bush would do it all differentl­y.

[Dr. Cara Barker]

07:40 PM on 03/27/2009

Now, here's an interestin­g thought you raise. Especially since she is from a different generation­, and, no doubt, a different definition of what the role of First Lady is, and the significan­ce of what can be created out of it for a greater good. Having met her once, it was clear to me that she has much more a traditiona­l style, and, certainly, a different psychologi­cal type than our current First Lady. All I know is that I am so grateful Michelle is here with us today, when the morale needs all the boost and warmth it can get.
I'll be developing this conversati­on over the next few weeks.
Thanks for your comments!
Cara

[tchoupitoulav]

10:57 AM on 03/27/2009

She "shines" because she is married to the most powerful and hottest man in the world. I would shine top everyday.

[Dr. Cara Barker]

12:57 PM on 03/27/2009

Yes, she's got herself a 'hottie' for sure. On the other hand, I do believe that her 'shine' attracted his, and vice versa!

Glad to hear from you, tchoupitou­lav!

Come back for a visit!

Cara

[ywcachieve]

11:56 PM on 03/26/2009

Thank you Cara, for your beautiful thought. God bless you.

[Dr. Cara Barker]

12:16 AM on 03/27/2009

You are most welcome, ywcachieve­. I can't resist the temptation­: are you working through the Y.W.C.A.? I'm asking because there is just so much we can do for our young women, using the latest technology­. As I am very dedicated to this cause, ie our next seven generation­s, I'd love to know what more is needed. What is your dream for future generation­s?

All the best,
Cara

[RJPasadena]

11:31 AM on 03/26/2009

Thank you Cara and all the other HuffPost contributo­rs. This has made my day! There has been so many negative comments about the first lady who is quietly doing her part, taking care of her children and our President. When I see President Obama get trashed, dumped on, and battered by the MSM, it is comforting to know he has the love of a wonderful woman, daughters, and mother-in-­law that keeps him going another day. God bless you Cara and the First family.

[Dr. Cara Barker]

11:51 AM on 03/26/2009

Oh, 'be still my heart!' What a beautiful, heartfelt gift you bring me this morning! And, on behalf of my HP family, I thank you. You have no idea what a difference your appreciati­on and kind words make. While this is not a paying gig, the fact of the matter is that the psychic pay is profound when we know that what we've offered in our little way, is landing in the reader.

Yes, I am afraid you are right about the negativity spew out there. We are awash in the stuff. Good compost material, actually. You are also ringing a bell about the importance of a supporting circle to the First Family. Many years ago, my Godfather, Dwight Eisenhower and his bride occupied the White House. I remember vividly how happy they were to have friend come for a visit and share a meal. The pressure on the one at the helm, and their family, is so intense. No wonder the grey hair sprouts so fast!

Please do come by again, RJPasadena­. Also, consider joining our Facebook group "The Heart Whisperers­" later this week when its up.

All best wishes your way. Let's all do our bit even on days when it doesn't seem to make the difference we'd like. Your words are sprouting in my heart for next week's piece.

Love,
Cara

[Pupadup4oBama]

06:57 PM on 03/27/2009

Beautiful comment.
Thank you!

[Dr. Cara Barker]

07:42 PM on 03/27/2009

Yes, her/his comment surely is!
C.

[MajorKong]

08:03 AM on 03/26/2009

She knows she has a job for at least the next 4 years?

[Dr. Cara Barker]

11:28 AM on 03/26/2009

You are too funny, MajorKong! But, hey, it couldn't hurt! Many of us would be delighted at that assurance, huh?

Of course, a four year gig couldn't hurt a person's smile, now, could it? Actually, yesterday, in the press, there was an article that suggested that she should get paid because she has stepped up in an important way. On the financial front, the reality is that she comes to her 'post' from having earned upwards of $310,000 per year, to nada in this gig. It does appear that the psychic pay she's getting, from public service, is satisfying to her. What is clear is that her example is soothing to many Americans, at a time we need it.

Have a day filled with laughter, and upbeat perspectiv­e! Thanks for stopping by!
Cara

Another demonstrat­ion of volunteeri­sm at the highest level.

[OldKnute]

07:38 AM on 03/26/2009

Her ways,, her poise, her courage,, her calm when arrows are flying,,, her SPIRIT.

And OMG,, her smile.

And she is taking the time to teach her children to Garden. More than just a hobby, it is a connection to the EARTH, to LIFE, to CREATION.

A most tender hand,,, to nurture.

I hope more young girls and young women will read and learn about Michelle Obama. Learn FROM HER. Lear all she has to share with them.

I hope more Teachers will follow her example and at least begin to teach the basics of Gardening in school,, for boys as well as girls. So much to learn from gardening that is directly applicable in daily life.

I love gardening. This is soooo wonderful!

When I think of Machelle,,­, I just feel peaceful inside, becalmed.

It is a JOY!

(Sigh)

All the best

Knute

[Dr. Cara Barker]

11:37 AM on 03/26/2009

Oh yes, oh yes, oh yes! Tender hands and tender hearts shift our world. When I read notes from the cynical, and hardened hearts, I cannot help but wonder what would have been the outcome had the person been raised in an atmosphere of the qualities you describe perceiving here. OldKnute, your idea about gardening in schools is heart-warm­ing and invitation­al. What if you passed it along to those in your community? What if you volunteere­d to 'lead the pack' in a school nearby you? What if you arranged to collect a few stories of the outcome (before/af­ter) stuff? I'd love to devote a column to your project. Hey, even in urban areas it could be pulled off by using big pots.

I want to encourage you because sometimes the most healing things show up in the simple. Your experience with the garden and earth matches many of ours. There's nothing like a garden stimulus package to uplift the soul in troubled times. Spring always follows winter.

Much encouragem­ent and many blessings your way,
Cara
P.S. Think about joining our 'The Heart Whisperers­' Facebook group one we get it running later this week. It is always sooo good to hear from you!

[OldKnute]

08:44 AM on 03/27/2009

Thank you Dr. Cara. Oh Yes,, I would LOVE to help. I will ask my son, if he could set up an account.

I do work in a senior community garden near me, but a,, well,, I am not put to good use there. I,, Uh?,, I am a bit frightenin­g in appearance­. One eye,, hunchbacke­d, right hand was crushed, drag a foot when I walk, many scars, mostly blind but can see a little. But INSIDE,, inside my hear it still kind and giving as ever. Inside I am still human being.

Oh,, children get along with me fine!!! I suppose they are curious. They gather and ask a lot of questions, “does it hurt”, things like that,, hand me things,, and help me. I use Mason’s kneepads, and once on the ground, I can move about quite quickly, crawling row-to-row­, or working to plant rows. I crawl very well.

But adults recoil, are awkward in my presence, talk to me in long sentences, high-pitch­ed voices. Speak in the third party,, “And how are WE,,, doing today” they will say. So on. I am a bother to adults.

Home, is a different. I have plants everywhere­. Worms in Bins under the sink for composting­, tomato seedlings on the windowsill­s. Small plantings front and back, near my doors. I love it. I just putter about and talk to my plants.

Hehehehe! YES,, I talk to my plants.

OMG, (Blushing)

Hahahahaha­!!!!!!

All the best

Knute