Since I excitedly took the director position at Tamarack Farm, people have been asking me, “why?”. Some were genuinely curious and others critically looked at me as if I might be at least partly losing my mind. I’ve outlined the top ten (in no particular order) reasons I’m super excited about joining the Farm community this summer.
Reason #9: Simple Living
Simple living is a central value at Farm & Wilderness. It is amazing to watch as campers here unwind from their fast-paced lives. Simple living manifests itself in various ways, from our simple cabins built with wood from our forests, to our composting toilets, to the way we make music instead of listening to it. Instead of sitting passively while images flash in front of us, we create our own fun and entertainment.
Young people’s lives are filled to the brim. It’s incredibly valuable for all of us to have this space to slow down. I’m looking forward to helping to hold a space for teens to have time and space to slow down enough to think. Valuing simple living creates a space to build authentic community and to discover one’s self (away from the pressures to conform and the onslaught of messages from the media).
Many people are aware of and involved in the Slow Food movement. Clearly, there’s tons of value in cooking/preparing whole/real food (which is what we do here). I’m also excited about the opportunity we have to experience slow entertainment and especially Slow Relationships. Today’s youth face the pressure of a “hook up” culture. TF offers a place to slow down and build authentic relationships—the face-to-face kind.
Reason #8 amazing people
F&W attracts amazing people. I’m looking forward to being in a community of people who come from all over the place, each with their own stories. I love the energy that flows into the valley here when first staff arrive (this past Friday—yeah!), then campers. I enjoy listening to people’s stories, and watching as each individual’s inner light (? Plural or singular – reads better as singular) begin to shine brighter as they settle into this place. We’re committed t to the work of creating a space where people feel comfortable to be their full, best-selves. I’m looking forward to getting to know the amazing people who will soon be joining me in this beautiful place.