A Spark of Life

The 40 acres at the Learning Center seemed to extend as far as the eye could see. To regenerate that much land would have ordinarily cost millions of dollars. Here was an opportunity for us to demonstrate our fundamental philosophy: when a few dedicated people join their hearts and minds as one, miracles take place. 

The team decided that the first step was to collect rainwater. The best and most economical way was to create a lake. Engineers on the team identified the location where the water from the rest of the land would flow. Immediate action was taken before the monsoons. Bulldozers were hired and a large man-made lake appeared almost overnight. It started to fill up as the monsoon rains came. Those passing by stopped in their tracks. People came from all around the area to see this new marvel. I took walks on the banks of the lake and stood in silent admiration. A $4,000 investment had created an instant landmark. 

At the same time, a truckload of vetiver grass was ordered and planted wherever the water was flowing after the rain. Vetiver grass sends roots six feet deep, and its stock grows fast because cattle don’t eat its razor-sharp blades. The vetiver did its job. Soil started to build up and other grasses started to sprout. We saw signs of small wildlife emerging near where the vetiver grass was planted. That in itself was worth celebrating. 

Simultaneously, we had thousands of hardy trees planted on the land. We made sure that, in between those trees, wild fruit trees were also planted to attract and provide food for the wildlife that was so important to rejuvenating the land.

 The 40 acres began making its comeback.