I often think about how I am only a tiny speck in the grand scheme of the universe. For most of my life, I have contemplated how I can do the greatest good in this short period of time I have been given. It took a decade or two, but it’s clear to me now that through food we can feel the happy, healthy, connected lives that we all strive for.
I have always a felt strong love for the environment, but growing up in a busy household with a family not so food-oriented, I didn’t know where to focus my energy. When I was introduced to Slow Food as a freshman in college, though, the floodgates were opened to a journey of discovery and passion. I found my anchor, the semi-tangible thing I could use as my guide towards a fulfilling existence. Not only was I able to become part of a network of individuals who are all brilliant in their own right, but I learned even more about myself; through Slow Food I gained balance, insight, and inspiration to make the most out of my no longer seemingly insignificant existence.
I am in awe over the wonders I have encountered in these rapid and monumental couple of years. I began to work through my heart last summer, at an organic CSA farm, Biophilia, in Jamesport, New York. At that time I knew Good, Clean, and Fair was my mission, and Biophilia showed me how to achieve this For All. Through all of the transplanting, weeding, and harvesting, I saw myself grow alongside a community of both plants and humans, feeling the love I have for life stronger than ever before.
My realized need for a food-people-love connection was nourished when I lived in the environmental co-op, Slade. Here I was able to express my sometimes overly fiery emotions and ambitious ideas with an equally passionate and encouraging family.
My drive to learn more about the food system is what led me to study in Oaxaca, Mexico, a place where the historical ties between food and culture is not forgotten. One of my greatest takeaways from this experience is that despite its various forms, there is a universal link between people and food that must be preserved and enhanced.
Now I continue to work towards this essential relationship, as a full time farmer on the vibrant, gifted 2.5 acres of Half Pint Farm in Burlington, Vermont. I never imagined that I could feel so gratefully proud of what I do and where I am at such a young age.
As I embark on my senior year at the University of Vermont, I hope to continue learning through the essential lens of Good, Clean, and Fair. I am excited and honored to be the president of my school’s chapter of Slow Food, and to see all of the new wonders that I will continue to encounter on my journey. There are so many influential people that I cannot thank enough for helping to shape me into the veggie-crazed, community-loving, philosophical enthusiast I have become (Phil Barbato, Abra Morawiec, Ann Cromley, Mara and Spencer Welton, Alexandra Rose, and my parents...just to name a few).
This trip to Terra Madre del Gusto has already made a remarkable impact on my life. To say I am excited for all the people I will meet, foods I will savor, lessons I will learn and share is a gross understatement. I know I may be a small person in a big world, but with the help of Slow Food I feel that I have the power to be more than just a tiny speck, and instead make this universe a little grander.
Best wishes from an eager snail,
Sara Jean