This past weekend marked a profound milestone in my life. Brimming with both laughter and tears, I graduated from The Ojai School of Herbal Studies. When I embarked on this journey two years ago, little did I know the impact it would have on my life.
Driven by my passion for plants and my affinity for the natural world, I enrolled in this program as an extension of my personal studies. The transformation that unfolded surpassed my wildest dreams. I found myself on a journey of deep personal inquiry, self-discovery and communion with the plant realm. Surrounded by a community of remarkable women, I was embraced in ways that have forever altered my path. Words cannot express the gratitude I feel for my classmates and especially for our teacher, Carol Wade.
I feels as if Carol and I share a connection that transcends time and space. It is as if we have known each other across lifetimes, through many incarnations and timelines. Her wisdom and generosity have profoundly shaped my growth. She embodies a rare light in this world, radiating joy, depth of spirit, and an unparalleled capacity for compassion. Her teachings on herbalism are rooted in over 25 years of personal practice that enriched our weekends together. She guided us through the intricacies of mind, body, and spirit, and encouraged us to explore the relationship between plants and people. We examined the rich tapestry of herbal traditions from around the globe while learning to craft various plant-based remedies and deepen our understanding of the healing arts.
In our shared journey, laughter was woven with tears to forge bonds of friendship that will endure for the rest of my life. Reflecting on these experiences brings tears to my eyes; words cannot fully capture the profound imprint this class has made on my heart.
I leave this chapter of my life not only with lifelong friends and a wealth of herbal knowledge but also as a part of a community empowered to make a difference in the world. It is not merely what we do, but how we collaborate and support one another that holds the power to cultivate a brighter, more harmonious future.
As I contemplate what lies ahead, I humbly share these reflections with you. If you feel a calling to deepen your understanding of herbs and plants, I wholeheartedly encourage you to explore the offerings of The Ojai School of Herbal Studies. With a new module beginning every fall, I can assure you, the journey will expand your horizons in ways beyond your imagination.
To my classmates and to Carol, my heartfelt gratitude and love overflow. This experience is etched forever in my heart as testament to the profound impact of shared knowledge and community.
