In this season of giving...

"We are a part of the Earth and it is through her great generosity that we are nurtured and nourished, eating her food, drinking her waters, clothed in her fabric. Even as we deplete her, she continues to give and give. Her generosity is a lesson for us all. Each morning on my walk I pass a gnarled old apple tree. I watch her boughs become heavy with fruit, slowly reddening as late summer turns to fall. I marvel at how she gives with such abundance without wanting anything in return. Now, in this "season of giving," if we can remember the constant stream of gifts we receive from her, and be appreciative in our hearts." —Llewellyn Vaughan-Lee

Painting by Elisabeth Slettnes