Last week we hosted some foster children at The Gentle Barn Tennessee. We welcomed Spring by planting vegetables in the garden. The teens brought dirt to life, connected with Mother Earth, learned about nutrition, and spent some time away from their troubles enjoying themselves, feeling like kids again, and having fun.

When shaken and distressed, tomatoes yield more fruit. When cut, lettuce grows back bigger, stronger, and sweeter. This is exactly the same as these kids. Because of their abusive pasts, they have been shaken, distressed, and cut down. Through their struggles and pain, they have grown stronger, more powerful, more aware, and more determined. Because of their challenges, they will know who they are and will have great purpose and much to give the world.

Over the next few months, the garden will grow and offer up broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, lettuce, and many other treasures. The foster kids will grow as well, cultivating self-awareness and hope for the future.

While they were here, the teens got to hug Dudley, of course, and get a much needed dose of unconditional love and healing energy to maintain them until next month when we get to see them again.

By Ellie Laks
Founder, The Gentle Barn