We established this planter so that Gardeners may identify it as a peaceful, meaningful place where one might pause and remember former gardeners. Hopefully, it will become a place not only for remembrance but also for reflection and renewal.
Please linger and enjoy these beautiful flowers as you pass by this planter on your way to your plot. Remember Ken, who like you, spent so much time preparing his garden bed, planting his carefully chosen seeds then watering and waiting for so many days ‘till that first tender sprout popped through the dark, rich soil. Then, for weeks to come, always, always, weeding and nurturing the seedlings to see them eventually grow big and strong. Gardening to Ken was truly a labor of love.
I want to thank the many gardeners who contributed:
v the gardener who came up with the idea
v the gardener who helped figure out the best spot
v the gardener who helped decide on the prettiest flowers to plant
v the former gardener who donated the 1/2 whiskey barrel
v the gardener who approved of this idea
v and all the other gardeners who make this a special place
This may seem like a lot of collaboration, but it wasn’t, as many people volunteered selflessly to set up this planter. We are lucky to have such a great bunch of people who like each other and work well together to get things done.
Finally, in reflecting on this event, a quote comes to mind that reminds me why I think many of us like to garden, by May Sarton, Author and Poet:
"Everything that slows us down and forces patience, everything that sets us back into the slow circles of nature, is a help. Gardening is an instrument of grace."
If anyone would like to say a few words about Ken, please feel free to do so now. Thanks for coming and please enjoy the refreshments.
