slowing down

i am sitting writing this in the sun, in a plastic chair in the back garden.  at my feet, one of the dogs is giving herself a wash, and the other is having a barking contest with the duck.  We've just had a chat with the neighbours about their tree - her mum's looking out for seedlings so my foster mum can plant one too. after a tour of my foster mum's greenhouse, and a pause to spot a newt in the frog pond, and marvel at how many tadpoles there are, and how big, we've sat down to chat about planting seedlings in the cardboard from toilet rolls (something i've heard from another friend), and how i've maybe left it a little late to plant seeds, so maybe will have to go for seedlings instead. still, it might be worth trying a few, and my foster mum promises to give me some runner bean seeds from her crop last year to have a go at planting. 'you've got up to may the 25th to plant your beans, as my uncle used to tell me' she says 'keep them well moist - they like a lot of water, beans'.
she is sitting, relaxing from a morning of working on the garden, extending the space they have for planting.  she wants to be able to grow more of her own food, she tells me. i spot a turtle-shaped pot plant i bought for her when i was still a child - she tells me: 'it has a plant in it every year - i always think of you when i put something in there'. from indoors, my foster dad jokes about needing 'grecian 2000' for his hair, while he boils the kettle for the day's 5th pot of tea.  he sits down with the crossword, stays in the shade.  i am sitting, wearing one of his t-shirts and cardigan - i did some cleaning this morning, and it took the last wear out of the one top i brought with me.  the dog settles, lays across my feet.  the pond waterfalls splash and trickle, and inside its pen, the duck quacks a reminder of its presence.

i have been reading a blog about minimalism recently (mnmlist.com) and enjoying a lot of what it has to say, wondering how i can hold on to the calm and contentment of this past few days once i go back home, to london, and once i go back to work.  i've been ignoring my phone a lot since i've been down here, and the last money i spent was on saturday morning, when i bought an ice-lolly.  i suppose it helps that i've barely left the house since i came down on friday.

except for a friend's wedding.  it was the loveliest and happiest wedding i've been to in a long while - and being nigerian, i go to a lot of weddings!

on friday afternoon, i joined the bride and groom to be, along with a group of their friends, part of the decoration squad.  their reception was to be the next day at the local village hall.  over the course of the afternoon and evening, we hung bunting and fairy lights, prettified tables with jam jars of flowers from the back garden.  and all around their were other brilliant home-made touches: a giant purple heart, made to match the bunting, a present from the groom's sister; table names held in place by blocks cut by the groom's dad; a hand-made cardboard suitcase to hold wedding cards and gifts.

on the day, the bride wore a dress she'd bought on e-bay ('only used once'!), and the registrar was a friend of the family.  myself and another friend sang and read, and another orchestrated the photos afterwards.  the wedding breakfast was provided by a local caterer (delicious salads, some quiche and salmon, and three choices of praise-showered desserts - i opted for the double chocolate fudge cake…).

as the day became dusk became dark, the dj took over from the home-made music mix, people hit the dance floor, and the joy that had bubbled up throughout the day spilled over into un-self-conscious jumping and gyrating, shimmying and shaking - joy dance-onified.

and i'm overwhelmed by how much everyone talked to everyone else.  and how blatantly people enjoyed each others company.  it didn't seem ridiculous that i felt i left with new friends.  people i'd never met before with whom i now have plans to organise a piano based sing along at their not yet found new home.  people i'd never met before who i've arranged to meet for tea next time i'm in their town.  it was a brilliant, lovely day.

in the reflection of my laptop screen, i see a bird alight on the duck pen - look around, and fly off again.  and as i look up, i swear i see a swallow heading west.  the sun warms my ears, throws dark shapes across the lawn, and my foster parents discuss their grand-children as they pat the dogs.

i am not surprised by my contentment here, by how little i miss the movement and bustle of london.  i'm definitely not surprised by how little i miss work.  inklings of the possibility of packing it all in now (rather than sensibly saving and waiting until next year) play around the edges of my mind.  perhaps it's a short -term thing, but it feels good not to be rushing to this or to that.  it feels good to sit and not worry about  what next.  it feels good to have been able to put all the usual clutter and worry out of my head - for now.  i'm hoping i can hold onto this when i go home.  hoping i can find it increasingly easy to minimalise, detach a little more. just slow down.

Personal Story 3, by Amnah Ali: Islamic Community Food Project at Spitalfields

Arriving at Spitalfields City farm on a sunny Sunday morning armed with a rainproof jacket and impractical boots, I had little preconception of what the Islamic Community Food Project would entail. But the chance to create with my own two hands was incentive enough to go.

I had been thinking about growing my own food for awhile but my inability to sustain indoor plants for longer than a few weeks usually dimmed my hope. If I couldn’t keep a little plant alive would I be able to manage tomatoes; marrows; or even basic herbs. My success rate with coriander was abysmal and I couldn’t bear thinking about the chives.

However, being able to weave my desire to grow with Islamic principles of patience; adab (etiquette); taqwa (God consciousness); and beauty was enticement. As was being able to do it all under supervision of Wisdom In Nature members; Muzammal and Wasi, and the lovely Naomi Glass!

So I arrived, uncertain but relaxed, ready to take on any task given to me. First the boots were discarded; and the bag; a pair of wellies embraced. Then I was raking soil; clearing weeds; replanting rosemary; chitting potatoes; and getting acquainted with a handful of militant spiders. I named them all Henry and hoped none had decided to journey home with me that evening. I was even given my first sprig of lemon balm (a ‘natural air freshener’ as the gutters were being cleaned and emitting a not-so-fragrant smell).

After a morning of sun soaked toiling, we had a group lunch where once again I witnessed the generosity of the group. Being as usual, slightly disorganised and forgetting to bring lunch to share, the group kindly decided to feed me. I realised the importance of community and the bounteousness of sharing. It again made me think of the way we chose to live today: the isolated ‘me’ culture with the one-two person meals from your local supermarket, ingested by you in your home, whilst your unknown neighbours do the same. Meanwhile the ingredients for your meals come from a range of countries; communities who may not have the resources to eat the food they put on your plates. Is there any pleasure to be had in food that comes from discord or sorrow? Whilst I was aware my choices were affecting many people rarely did it feel tangible as it did in that moment.

I saw and felt firsthand that growing the food you eat changes your relationship with food. In my mind’s eye the food is suddenly imbued with blessings: the love; time; affection you gave to it in its growing phase. The process of growing it and then allowing it to nourish you and your beloved community is God consciousness in action. Is it possible not to be grateful when the food you’ve grown is ingested by you? The mercy that it grew, under your protection, when you were nervous it wouldn’t, and now it nourishes your dearest?

We had workshops – wonderful, free, organic workshops – in the afternoon which challenged our perceptions and called for us to really look at how responsible we were when it came to food. I realised that my middle classed upbringing and lifestyle gave me the freedom to make choices – to be fair-trade; organic etc. Yet, I still was unable to really take action. Since then I have ventured baby steps into home gardening. My balcony now supports coriander; chives; and basil. I look at them tenderly and consistently, like an overzealous new mother, hoping that they might survive the spring chill and that my sabr and taqwa will generate nourishment: physical and, spiritual.

A Journey through the first event: Islamic Community Food Project

An hour before midday, after registering their arrival at Spitalfields City Farm, the eager looking, fresh-faced participants took part in a hands-on practical coordinated by the energetic Naomi Glass. Myself and Wasi also joined in.

One group concentrated energies on the meditative task of careful seed-sowing. Another group flexed their muscles to dig some manure into the earth.

 

 

 

Having developed a team-spirit through these joint efforts, we all reached for the delicious soup that Naomi had prepared only a few moments earlier using mostly ingredients from the farm itself. As we sipped and let the warmth down, we began to talk philosophy, food and much else.

After eating, and following an optional midday contemplative prayers (zuhr), it was time for the workshops. We gently touched down on a couple of introductory ice-breakers elegantly facilitated by Wasi, and then explored food, community, decision making through consultation (shura), and some of our own stories - what we bring to give a few examples. As a co-facilitator, I had the pleasure of working with a fantastic group of people. Some of the exercises were done as whole group, others in sub-groups. We had put quite alot of thought into how we would frame the workshop exercises - what would enable new participants to experientially and collectively get a sense of the idea of an Islamic community food project, whilst giving them space to think creatively and to be empowered? We felt our work paid off, and was supported by the creativity and humility that the participants brought.

One subgroup explored some of the qualities and types of activities associated with 'community'. The flip chart on the left captures some of their ideas. Another subgroup reflected on some key principles or values expressed through Islam around food. The photo on the right captures some of their ideas. (Clicking on the photos should enlarge them).

 

The final session of the day involved considering possibilities for our next steps. Where might we go next? Some ideas began to emerge, whilst others were yet to evolve into a more tangible form, a process that will be supported by time and further reflection.

The exciting journey we are travelling on together continues, and we look forward to welcoming newcomers who feel called to join us at follow-up events.

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You may also like to read a personal perspective of the first event by participants, Saira Khan, and Ali Ajaz.

All Photos © Wisdom In Nature

Personal Story 2, by Ali Ajaz: Islamic Community Food Project at Spitalfields

"Disenchanted with biased globalised food system" – check!

"Tired of seeing a new Tesco Express opening up 5 minutes from the old Tesco Express" – check!

"Unhappy about seeing the old Tesco Express in the first place" –check!

"Interested in exploring alternatives" – check!

"A community food initiative sounds good" – check!

Having been aware of the important work that Wisdom in Nature have been involved with, I’d been meaning to be a part of this interesting movement for some time now. But events came and went as the toils of this world seemed to get the better of me and my ‘free’ time. However, upon hearing about an Islamic Community Food Project, I was determined to attend hoping to learn something tangible from this grassroots, progressive movement which was based upon the underpinnings of Islamic principles. What could sound better than this?

This first meeting was held at Spitalfields City Farm and although I live less than a few miles away, I had no idea that it existed. Neatly tucked away amongst the urban hustle and bustle, it provided a very welcoming distraction to the all too familiar commotion of the Sunday market in East London. The day started off by helping out with a number of duties on the farm. Now this may sound somewhat daft but I experienced a hint of apprehension about doing something on a farm. I attributed this to my urbanised upbringing and limited connection/neglect of the natural environment around me. I was therefore surprised by the degree of tranquillity obtained from just pulling weeds on this cool Sunday morning. More of this was what I needed!

The afternoon session initially focused upon getting better acquainted with the other members of the group and it became apparent very quickly that there was a common enthusiasm shared by all. Individuals from various backgrounds, seemly united by a hope to be part of something exciting, something meaningful. The group dynamics were allowed to evolve naturally by the expert guidance from Muzammal and Wasi. Concepts of food and community in an Islamic context were explored by the group and by the end of the afternoon, I felt an optimistic vibe reverberating though the group, this despite the ever falling temperature. This Islamic Community Food Project has the potential to grow and bloom into something special and I am looking forward to being a part of it.

Ali Ajaz

All Photos © Wisdom In Nature

Personal Story 1, by Saira Khan: Islamic Community Food Project at Spitalfields

Food For Thought

The “Islamic Community Food Project”, my eyes glazed over a little bit as I read the briefing sheet on my way to Spitalfields City Farm. Hailing from the concrete jungle that is London I’m not sure I had ever set foot on a farm before. Yet on one particularly cold September day I found myself trudging through a farm, trawling through compost, planting seeds, and trying to stare down some uber cool geese strutting around me with what I am convinced was the theme to Saturday Night Fever in the background … I’m not sure I won that stare battle, I got the feeling that they kind of run the place, like some sort of bird Mafia. Not only did I never imagine I would be doing all of the above, but I found that I was actually thoroughly enjoying myself!

I must confess that it was with more than a pinch of trepidation that I volunteered to be part of this project. I wasn’t exactly clear on what it was all about, but this was actually a blessing in disguise because I found that the atmosphere of encouragement, empowerment and participation meant that as the day went on and as the group undertook various discussions and exercises, it became clear that on some level we already knew what we wanted to achieve and the project could in effect be what we collectively wanted it to be. Consequently in a kind of “wax on wax off” moment, the excellent facilitators, Muzammal and Wasi (of Wisdom In Nature) and Naomi (of Spitalfields City Farm), gently prodded our collective knowledge and experience in order to give us the realisation of what our objectives were in developing the project and how we could each contribute to it’s future development. It really is an exciting prospect and I’m looking forward to seeing how it develops.

As for the people involved, I honestly can’t speaking highly enough of the facilitators and the attendees at the project. Each person came with their own story and a great deal of enthusiasm and energy. I felt that this group of like minded people who found themselves laughing, praying, meditating, conversing and eating delicious food together could really be part of something extraordinary.

So, to conclude, I’m glad to report that following our first meeting the Islamic Community Food Project is now up and running. They say that each journey begins with the first step, and I can honestly say that I thoroughly enjoyed making that step and look forward to the future leaps and bounds!

Saira Khan

All Photos © Wisdom In Nature

Retreat: deeper into life, not further from it

At the beginning of this month I was lucky enough to be a part of a weekend retreat – 24 hours away from the usual bustle and buzz of life in London, in the beautiful setting of the Quadrangle.  LIFE (Local Initiative for Faith and the Environment) is a group, working with women in Lambeth, to bring them together over inter-faith dialogue and the environment.  The Quadrangle is a farmstead in Shoreham, Kent – lovingly restored, and sitting within the peaceful and quietly stunning Darent Valley, it provides a perfect space for community activities.

Rebecca Brewin and Saadat Yusuf of LIFE coordinated this 24 hours ‘LIFE-giving retreat’, taking a group of women from the usual busy-ness of their lives, and bringing them to the beauty and tranquility of the Kentish countryside.   The weekend allowed each of us to experience life in a way we maybe forget too often, with the responsibilities and duties that we often  need to attend to, before being able to attend to ourselves.

We were led in sessions of yoga, introduced to foraging, and walked together, surrounded by beauty and kissed by the sun.  We cooked and ate together, had a sewing circle where we learnt to make something practical and pretty, and even sang together.  And throughout the weekend, the warmth of true, heart-driven sharing permeated all that we did.  In the reflections on Qur’an and eco-poetry session that I held, I was warmed to hear people really speaking honestly and reflectively, and this authenticity and genuine interest was something recurrent throughout our time together.

‘Together’ – I keep using this word to describe our time away, and really for me, it sums up so much the feeling that the weekend left me with – a feeling of having really shared and learnt from these women in a way I could never do alone, or even when surrounded by people, but without that openness and naturalness.  ‘Warm glow’ became my default setting for the time there, and I carried the tranquility and happiness from the weekend forward with me when I returned again to the buzzing of London town.

Here are a few pictures from my time at the Quadrangle with this lovely group of women, and a link to some others.  I look forward to the next time I can experience such a warm meeting of hearts and minds.

LIFE retreat photos