By: Rev. Travis K. Walker of Wiley and McClave United Methodist Church

A little over one month ago, Ash Wednesday was celebrated and remembered at both congregations I serve as their pastor. I recall the act of placing ashes on our foreheads as a sign of both repentance and fully recognizing our dependence on God’s care and hope for us. In the time that passed, my own dependence on God’s hope and grace has grown in ways that I could have never imagined.

Some say that great pandemics come along once every 100 years or so. Current circumstances would suggest that’s true. In 1918, 102 years ago, Americans were going through something similar to what we’re experiencing now. 

Just a few weeks ago, I would venture to say that no one in Kiowa County had ever paid much attention to the virus we now know worldwide as COVID 19. When the panic began overseas, I will be the first to admit, I had my doubts as to the severity of this “bug” which has infected thousands and has inflicted such massive global changes on our lives and in our world. The rate of cancellations of events that we all hold dear, from high school proms and graduations to weddings and funerals, to March Madness to you name it, the list could go on and on, but never in my wildest dreams did I ever think they would suggest to cancel worship…but they did.

Gardening has the ability to get the whole family out together into the fresh air and sunlight and creates a sense of purpose and accomplishment. Many families are seeking safe and meaningful activities they can participate in at home as our world practices social distancing to reduce the spread of Covid19. Gardens have historically been important in times of crisis. Many of you may have heard of WW2 era Victory Gardens planted to aid in food shortages. Did you know that an astounding 40 percent of the food grown in the U.S. in 1944 came from National Victory Gardens? Gardening fosters a sense of perseverance and reliance by providing hope and food. I am pretty sure most of us can weather many of life’s storms as long as we have hope and food! If you have never planted a garden or just typically don’t have the time to plant one, now is a great time to start! Gardening can provide many benefits to people of all ages. Not only do gardens provide fresh, nutritious and delicious food but can boost overall physical and mental health. According to the World Health Organization, good health means more than just the absence of bad health symptoms. It means “the presence of positive emotions, quality of life, sense of community and happiness.” Gardening burns calories, helps build and maintain strong muscle and bones, reduces likelihood of dementia, improves sleep and heart health, and elevates immunity. Studies also show that gardening can actually reduce stress and improve mood by increasing the body’s serotonin levels.