Yesterday I went for 'doom and gloom' but things never remain the same, the opposite of pessimism is optimism in the 'Green Movement'. And also, talking of opposites, we have male and female. Now it has always struck me that through the different groups, men tackle the technical problems of say permaculture, whereas women taken on the role of growing and making. Enthusiasm and contentment in what we are doing is the main thrust of our actions.
Slowly in the real world women are taking power and it seems to me all for the good. Would you have really liked George Galloway becoming member of parliament for Batley and Spen rather than Kim Leadbetter, knowing that she will work for her community, whereas George will work for a set of outlandish beliefs in a system that has outrun its viability.
But this is not about politics but the grassroots of action in community and Mary Clear of 'Incredible Edible Todmorden' seems down to earth but hardworking in her efforts to create a community which works together. Why not grow vegetables in public spaces, and plant fruit trees as well, it is completely logical. And if the local police tell you not to ask formally of bureaucracy about planting in front of their station but just go ahead and do it, why not?
We are tied down by ownership, this is our territory, see the hedge or fence round this property? don't touch! Breaking down the barriers in public space though is not a criminal offence. Making public space more comfortable to live in, without whining about litter and dog poo - pick it up for goodness sake.
In this village we have one bench just outside the church, there could easily be another one on the green, but put that forward at a meeting and there will be quibbles as to who actually owns the land and nothing will be done.
Anyway here is a longer video of Mary Clear with her vision, wish someone had handed the cough pastilles out though. Mean thought of the day!
Todmorden sounds just the right place for you to be moving to Thelma - and your daughter lives there I think. Yes today's election result is brilliant and like you I agree about Galloway.
ReplyDeleteGallowway always pops up like a bad penny, with strife and chaos on his tail. Yes she lives in 'supermarket' Todmorden, whereas the place to be is posh Hebden Bridge who won't let the supermarkets in.
DeleteThey don't half talk funny in Todmorden.
ReplyDeleteIs that the Northern accent you are talking about ;) it's lovely.
DeleteThe graveyard plots made me chuckle! Glad that you are going to a place which is full of positivity and . . . gardeners!!! It sounds a great place to be.
ReplyDeleteThat made me laugh to Jennie but God's Acre is definitely going to waste, wildflowers and vegetables seems the way to go.
DeleteNice to hear positive stories of people making a difference for the good of all! Great idea for sharing free produce!
ReplyDeleteIt has been going for quite a few years Ellen, I shall put on another way of changing towns soon.
ReplyDeleteI love this video. What a wonderful idea!
ReplyDeleteIt is the way people come together to do something Debby.
DeleteWhat really got me annoyed was Galloway's fascistic views on the LGBT community. The sinister way 'respectable' fascist politicians wind up the bully boys who then smash the shop windows - only to then feign incredulity when challenged. He kind of claims left-wing credentials but he's turned into a tinpot Trump. Right down to challenging the result. What did he say? “The whole election campaign was dominated by lazy and false tropes about our campaign, about the thousands of people that voted for us, about their motives for doing so, in a way which defamed them as much as it defamed me,” he said.
ReplyDelete“So on multiple grounds we will apply to the courts for this election result to be set aside." Pure Trump.
All that being said, if Thelma Walker had been standing against Labour, I'd have voted for her.
Galloway has always been seen as a nasty piece of work, and he lived up to that expectation during that election. Had to go and look up my namesake ;) Independence for the North. She resigned on principal from the Labour Party - having principals amongst our politicians is a rare gift.
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