Intending to improve myself and my practice, I reflect on the readings and discussions we have had in CALS505 so far. Reflective practices may seem optional in the academic world. However, I see great value in pausing and taking the time to review my knowledge, assumptions, and bias.

Other students have mentioned in our discussions how gardening can be part of the climate action movement. It reminds me of the small steps we can take to build a better future. Being a leader can be compared to gardening. When we garden, we take care of the earth, and a deeper connection with the planet happens, helping fulfill our purpose as gardeners and leaders. By carefully planting seeds, watering, and working on plants companion, we create a small world where harmony and growth live together. “Planting positive change” as West Coast Seeds company aims.

The session with Catherine and Vanessa brought several insights: there is colonialism in our food systems, and even with the best intentions, a culture of privileges exists. Unfortunately, injustice exists in the gardening world as it exists with climate. I have been thinking about the way I can integrate minorities and all voices in the garden project (at home, at my workplace, and in the RRU kitchen garden project). I still do not have the answers, but at least I am conscious that a shift is needed to decolonize these systems.

Some Indigenous communities gravitate around Women and Elders groups for decision-making and knowledge sharing; I wonder how I can respectfully integrate their ways of doing and wisdom in my projects. It will help avoid and reproduce mistakes as a privileged white woman. Sanchez’s book “the four sacred gifts” beautifully mentions that “the voices of many wise ones share in the message that the honor of one of the honor of all; the hurt of one is the hurt of all.” (2017). It is about connection and community. It is about leadership and leaving no one behind; I hope to carry this notion in my work.

Similarly, human value is seen as a critical component in leadership. “When leaders infuse the organizational culture with the element of human value, it has a ripple effect.” (Stallard & Pankau, 2008). Focusing on the emotional needs of the patients and employees proved to be efficient for everyone, as per the reading. The concept feels refreshing in our world because we need connection as individuals and citizens to fight the climate crisis and many other significant issues. The leaders I admire have the capacity to bring people together; even when there is disagreement, collaboration and respect remain. I aim to be part of these value-based leaders.

With the help of Brene Brown’s reading, I picked the values of ambition and compassion because they complement my vision of being a change maker who respects humans and non-humans. More to come on these values as I move forward into the coming weeks.

References

Brown, B. (2018). Dare to lead: Brave work. Tough conversations. Whole hearts.  Random House. Part 2: Living our values. https://moodle.royalroads.ca/moodle/pluginfile.php/984643/mod_book/chapter/225605/Brown%20%282018%29%20Part%20two%2C%20from%20Dare%20to%20Lead%20%281%29.pdf

Sanchez, A. (2020). The four sacred gifts: Indigenous wisdom for modern times. Enliven Books.

Stallard, M.L. & Pankau, J. (2008). Strengthening human value in organizational cultures. Leader to Leader. DOI 10.1002/ltl.264