Spiritual Touchstone:

Spiritual Practice and the Arts
By Rev. Dr. Melinda V. McLain

“Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time.”
—Thomas Merton, Trappist monk and author (1915-1968)

Having just returned from our annual opera-cation in Santa Fe, New Mexico, I’ve been thinking about the art and life of the great painter Georgia O’Keefe.  Although her art is classified as modern and abstract, her paintings have always seemed quite realistic to me because I have spent a lot of time in the high deserts where she painted things pretty much the way they actually look, albeit she paints them from her own unique perspective.  For her flowers, she zooms in on the minute details, while her landscapes are sweeping vistas replete with the amazing colors of New Mexico.  But if you take the time to visit these places and pay attention, you too can see what she saw in a given place.

Being able to recognize that everything can be seen or experienced in a new or different way is a great gift from the practice of making art to our spiritual practice. Making and/or seeing art can also help us to exercise our ability to see and perceive the world in a new way.

We all have the ability to perceive the same things quite differently once we take into account the way our experiences, education, and current life situation affect our ability to make sense of the world.  This is a wonderful gift AND it can be a source of difficulty in a diverse community.  The difficulty comes when any one of us simply assumes that others share our same point of view or worse yet that our point of view is exclusively correct.

Recognizing that a flower can be experienced differently and/or seen differently is a good way to correct our sense that “my way” is the only way. This understanding can then be applied to disagreements between people and can become the basis for expanding our empathy - the willingness to recognize the point of view of someone else.

Do you enjoy looking at art? Have you ever felt your heart stirred by a particular painting or sculpture? How does the experience of making or seeing art affect your spirituality?

In the Garden:

As August arrives in the Bay Area, home gardeners are rewarded with an abundance of fresh and flavorful ingredients ready to be harvested and savored. The warm climate and coastal influences create a unique environment that allows for a diverse array of crops to thrive during this time of the year. From vibrant vegetables to succulent fruits, let's explore the ingredients that are in season and discover some delectable recipes to make the most of your August garden harvest.

Tomatoes:
Arguably the star of the summer garden, tomatoes thrive in the Bay Area's climate. Varieties like Early Girl, Sun Gold, and Brandywine are known for their exceptional taste. A classic Caprese Salad is an excellent way to showcase their freshness, combining tomatoes with fresh basil, mozzarella, and a drizzle of olive oil. For a heartier option, whip up a batch of homemade marinara sauce using your garden tomatoes and enjoy it over pasta or as a base for pizza.

Recipe Suggestion: Heirloom Tomato Galette
Enjoy the rich flavors of heirloom tomatoes in a rustic galette. Layer slices of different colored tomatoes over a buttery pie crust, sprinkle with fresh thyme, and bake until golden brown. Serve with a dollop of herbed ricotta for a delightful summer treat.

Zucchini and Summer Squash:
Zucchini and summer squash thrive in the Bay Area's warm climate, yielding a generous harvest throughout the season. Try your hand at making crispy zucchini fritters or experiment with stuffed summer squash, filling them with a mixture of quinoa, herbs, and cheese.

Recipe Suggestion: Grilled Zucchini Tacos
Fire up the grill and slice zucchini lengthwise before grilling until charred and tender. Fill soft corn tortillas with grilled zucchini, black beans, diced avocado, and a drizzle of lime crema for a refreshing and satisfying taco night.

Berries:
Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries thrive in the Bay Area's mild summer climate. These sweet gems are perfect for snacking, baking, or adding to refreshing summer beverages.

Recipe Suggestion: Mixed Berry Salad with Honey-Lime Dressing
Toss a medley of fresh berries with mixed greens, toasted almonds, and crumbled goat cheese. Drizzle with a honey-lime vinaigrette for a light and vibrant summer salad.

Peppers:
From bell peppers to spicy varieties, peppers thrive in the Bay Area's summer warmth. Stuff bell peppers with a mixture of rice, beans, and herbs for a satisfying vegetarian dish, or use jalapenos to add a kick to salsas and sauces.

Recipe Suggestion: Roasted Red Pepper and Walnut Dip
Blend roasted red bell peppers, toasted walnuts, garlic, olive oil, and a dash of lemon juice for a flavorful dip. Serve with pita bread or fresh vegetable sticks for a delectable appetizer.

The Bay Area's summer garden offers an incredible array of fresh ingredients that inspire a multitude of delicious recipes. From juicy tomatoes to vibrant berries and versatile peppers, the season's bounty invites creativity and experimentation in the kitchen. Embrace the flavors of summer and savor the joy of harvesting your homegrown produce to create memorable dishes that celebrate the beauty of the Bay Area's agricultural riches.

Additional Resources:
Ripening Dates for Fruits and Vegetables in California

Please share your Summer home garden recipe ideas in the comments! 

Image: skinnytaste.com/heirloom-tomato-galette

In the Garden:

Contra Costa County, is blessed with a diverse array of native pollinators that play a crucial role in our ecosystems. Bees, butterflies, birds, and other pollinators are responsible for pollinating numerous plant species, ensuring the production of fruits, vegetables, and seeds, while also supporting the overall health of the environment. However, these essential pollinators are facing numerous challenges, including habitat loss, pesticide exposure, and climate change. As responsible stewards of our environment, it is our duty to support and provide safe spaces for local pollinators to thrive.

One of the pollinator groups that requires urgent attention and support are the native bees. These crucial insects play a vital role in the region's ecosystem by facilitating the pollination of numerous plant species, including many crops that contribute to the local agricultural economy.

However, our local ecosystem depends on more than just bees for efficient pollination. Several local pollinators play vital roles in maintaining the balance of the region's flora. One such crucial pollinator is the monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus). These graceful insects undertake epic migrations, making them essential for the propagation of various flowering plants. Ensuring the preservation of their habitat, including native milkweed species that serve as their larval host plants, is crucial for their continued well-being.

Here are some practical ways to lend a helping hand to these invaluable creatures.

Embrace Native Flora:
One of the most effective ways to support local pollinators is by incorporating native plants into your landscape. Native flora has evolved alongside local pollinators, offering them a readily available food source. Contra Costa County boasts a rich biodiversity, and planting native species like California poppy, ceanothus, and buckwheat will attract and sustain a variety of pollinators throughout the year. Native plants also require less water and maintenance, making them ideal for creating pollinator-friendly gardens.

Create Pollinator-Friendly Gardens:
Transforming your outdoor space into a pollinator-friendly garden is an excellent way to provide a safe and welcoming environment for these creatures. Opt for a variety of flowering plants that bloom at different times of the year, ensuring a constant food source. Avoid the use of pesticides, herbicides, and chemical fertilizers, as these can harm pollinators directly or indirectly. Instead, embrace organic gardening practices and explore natural pest control alternatives, such as companion planting.

Build Pollinator Habitats:
Pollinators require suitable habitats not only for feeding but also for nesting and shelter. Consider adding features like bee houses, butterfly puddling stations, and birdhouses to your property. Bee houses offer nesting sites for solitary bees, while butterfly puddling stations provide essential minerals and moisture for butterflies. Birdhouses encourage local bird species, some of which are vital pollinators, to make your garden their home. 

Preserve Natural Areas:
Beyond your property, support pollinators by advocating for the preservation of natural areas in Contra Costa County. These spaces serve as critical sanctuaries for native flora and fauna, allowing pollinators to thrive without human intervention. Participate in local conservation efforts and support organizations working to protect and restore natural habitats.

Educate and Spread Awareness:
Raise awareness about the importance of pollinators within your community. Organize workshops, presentations, or garden tours to educate others about the significance of supporting local pollinators and how they can make a positive impact. Encourage local schools, businesses, and municipalities to implement pollinator-friendly practices as well.

By embracing native flora, creating pollinator-friendly gardens, building habitats, preserving natural areas, and educating others, we can make a substantial difference in supporting local pollinators. Our actions, no matter how small, collectively contribute to the well-being of these essential creatures and help maintain a thriving ecosystem for generations to come. Let us come together as responsible stewards of our environment, nurturing nature's heroes and ensuring a brighter future for pollinators and ourselves.

Photo by Simon Berger

Additional Resources:
Monarch Conservation Program
Pollinator Conservation Resources

Summer Reading
by Melinda V. McLain

SPIRITUAL TOUCHSTONE

Most folks who know me, know that I love to read. And I love to get recommendations for good books and share the same with others. I’m also a HUGE fan of libraries and encourage everyone to visit your local library often. And don't forget to check out online library resources where you can borrow materials in a digital format to read on your phone, computer or e-reader. Contra Costa Library has a robust online collection that I love!

Recently, I happened to read a bio of the author Agatha Christie, a beloved author of detective fiction who left behind many mysteries about her own life that writers are still trying to unravel. One of the wonderful techniques she used in her novels is known as an “unreliable narrator”.

Here’s what the the AI platform ChatGPT says is an unreliable narrator:

An unreliable narrator is a literary or storytelling device where the narrator's credibility or truthfulness is called into question. It refers to a narrative perspective that presents the story from the viewpoint of a character who may be deceptive, misguided, mentally unstable, or lacking in self-awareness. The unreliability can stem from intentional deceit or unintentional factors such as limited knowledge, personal bias, or distorted perception of events.

By using an unreliable narrator, authors can create ambiguity, suspense, or irony within a narrative. It challenges readers to critically evaluate the information presented and to question the narrator's interpretations or motives. This technique adds depth and complexity to the storytelling, as it allows for multiple perspectives and encourages readers to actively engage with the text.

Unreliable narrators can take various forms, such as:

• Naive Narrator: The narrator lacks experience or understanding, leading them to misinterpret or misunderstand events. They may innocently convey incorrect information due to their limited knowledge or naivety.

• Mentally Unstable Narrator: The narrator's mental state is compromised, leading to distortions, hallucinations, or delusions. Their perceptions may not align with reality, making their account unreliable.

• Dishonest or Manipulative Narrator: The narrator intentionally deceives the reader by lying, omitting crucial details, or presenting a biased perspective. Their motives for distortion may vary, such as seeking sympathy, justifying their actions, or manipulating the reader's emotions.

• Unconscious Bias: The narrator may possess certain biases or prejudices that influence their storytelling. These biases can lead to a skewed or one-sided portrayal of events and characters.

Unreliable narrators can be found in various literary works, including novels, short stories, and even films. Some famous examples include Humbert Humbert from Vladimir Nabokov's "Lolita," Patrick Bateman from Bret Easton Ellis's "American Psycho," and Holden Caulfield from J.D. Salinger's "The Catcher in the Rye."

And of course, Agatha Christie used it very well in “The Murder of Roger Ackroyd” plus the biographer suggests that Christie herself intentionally shaped her public image in a way that made her an unreliable narrator of her own life. For example, she never actually explained her disappearance for nine days in 1926. Did she wander off to a spa because she had temporary amnesia? Was she punishing her adulterous husband? Or was her disappearance an amazing publicity stunt. Only Agatha knew for sure, or did she?

After reading this book and checking out ChatGPT (another unreliable narrator?), I’ve been noticing that I am often an unreliable narrator of my own life too. I tell myself things are fine - when they are not. And sometimes I do the reverse, I actually fail to be ok when things really are just lovely. And just like in fiction, I often get things wrong because of naivete, unconscious bias or I'm just a bit mentally wobbly. I'd like to think I avoid dishonesty or manipulation, but I'm perfectly capable of "shading" a story so that it will improve your perception of me or someone I love.

How ‘bout you? And what difference does it make if we can begin to recognize ourselves as unreliable narrators of our own reality? Would it give you more empathy or ability to spot fraudsters at the outset? What if, recognizing our own fallibilities, helped us to be more humble?

May your summer be filled with great reads that lead you to a greater understanding of yourself and others. 

Photo by: Magda Ehlers at pexels.com

Recipe:

Burned out on summer BBQ? With the impending heatwave coming to Contra Costa you may find yourself needing to cool off with a refreshing Summer Salad. If you find yourself longing for a change of pace, a respite from the smoky flavors and sizzling meats, then look no further. It's time to embrace a cooler, fresher alternative that will invigorate your taste buds and rejuvenate your summer dining experience.

Photo by Roman Odintsov

Ingredients:
2 cups mixed salad greens (e.g., lettuce, arugula, spinach)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced
1 cup sweet corn kernels (fresh or canned)
1 bell pepper (any color), diced
1 small red onion, thinly sliced
1 avocado, sliced
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, torn
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional) 

For the dressing:
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1.     In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, sweet corn, bell pepper, red onion, avocado, basil, and mint.
2.     In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3.     Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients.
4.     If desired, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the salad for added flavor.
5.     Let the salad sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6.     Serve the summer veggie medley salad as a refreshing and nutritious side dish or add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a complete meal.

Enjoy your fresh and vibrant summer salad!

Note: Feel free to modify the recipe based on your personal preferences and the availability of vegetables in your area. You can also add other seasonal vegetables such as zucchini, radishes, or green beans for more variety.

Community News:

Contra Costa County is renowned for its stunning landscapes and picturesque communities. However, this region is not immune to the threat of wildfires that can devastate homes and communities. Fires are possible throughout the year in California, but the peak fire season in Northern California usually begins in June or July and runs through late October or November. In light of the increasing risk of wildfires, homeowners in Contra Costa County must understand the importance of creating fire defensible space and implementing practical measures to safeguard their properties. By adopting proactive measures, residents can significantly reduce the potential impact of wildfires and increase the safety of their homes.

Understanding Fire Defensible Space:

Fire defensible space refers to the designated area around a property that is modified to minimize the risk of fire spreading from nearby vegetation. This space acts as a barrier, offering firefighters a safe area to defend homes and providing homeowners with a higher chance of survival during a wildfire. Creating and maintaining defensible space is crucial for communities in Contra Costa County to mitigate the impact of wildfires.

Practical Measures for Homeowners:

1. Clear Vegetation: Remove dead vegetation, dry grass, and fallen leaves from within at least 30 feet of your home. Keep this area free from debris, including dead plants, branches, and other combustible materials. Trim trees and shrubs, maintaining a minimum distance of 10 feet between branches and the ground.

2. Prune Trees and Limbs: Regularly prune trees, focusing on lower branches that can act as "ladder fuels," allowing fire to climb into the tree canopy. Maintain a clearance of at least 10 feet between tree crowns and structures.

3. Manage Landscaping: Select fire-resistant plants and materials for landscaping near your home. Choose low-flammability plants and avoid using highly flammable vegetation. Maintain adequate spacing between plants to minimize the potential spread of fire.

4. Create Defensible Zones: Divide your property into zones to prioritize fire-resistant measures. Zone 1, within 0-30 feet of your home, should be the most meticulously maintained. Zone 2, 30-100 feet from your home, requires careful vegetation management, reducing fuel loads and minimizing fire spread. Zone 3, 100-200 feet from your home, should have strategically spaced trees and reduced fuel loads.

5. Address Access and Safety: Ensure your property has proper access for emergency vehicles, such as wide driveways and clear roadways. Install address signs that are clearly visible for emergency responders. Maintain an emergency supply kit and develop an evacuation plan for your family.

6. Maintain Gutters and Roofs: Clean debris from roofs and gutters regularly, as they can become potential ignition sources during wildfires. Consider using spark-resistant materials for roofing and covering vents with fine mesh to prevent ember intrusion.

7. Firewise Communities: Engage with your neighbors and community to create a Firewise community. Collaborate on implementing fire safety practices, sharing resources, and organizing community events to raise awareness and educate residents.

In Contra Costa County, the risk of wildfires poses a significant threat to homes and communities. By creating fire defensible space and implementing practical measures, homeowners can play a crucial role in reducing the vulnerability of their properties. Through active involvement and collaboration within their communities, residents can enhance the overall fire resilience of Contra Costa County. Remember, preparedness and proactive measures are essential for safeguarding lives, homes, and the beautiful landscapes of this region.

To learn more about Defensible Space in California, visit www.fire.ca.gov/dspace

Gardening Tip:

Summer is a delightful season for food enthusiasts and farmers market lovers in Contra Costa County. With an abundance of fresh, locally grown produce, shopping at farmers markets becomes an exciting adventure for those seeking vibrant flavors and healthy ingredients. If you're looking to make the most of your summer shopping experience, here are some valuable tips to help you navigate the farmers markets in Contra Costa County and take advantage of the in-season produce.

Know the Seasonal Produce:
Understanding what fruits and vegetables are in season during the summer months will allow you to plan your shopping list accordingly. In Contra Costa County, summer brings a wealth of delicious produce, including juicy peaches, plump tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, succulent berries, sweet corn, zucchini, bell peppers, and more. Stay informed about the local growing seasons to make the most of your farmers market visits.

Arrive Early:
To get the freshest and most sought-after produce, arrive at the farmers market early in the morning. Many farmers start setting up their stands well before the official opening time. By arriving early, you'll have first pick of the finest fruits, vegetables, and herbs, ensuring you get the cream of the crop.

Bring Your Own Bags and Containers:
Reduce waste and be environmentally conscious by bringing your own reusable bags and containers. Farmers markets often use less packaging than traditional grocery stores, but having your own bags ensures you can carry your purchases comfortably and sustainably. Additionally, some vendors offer discounts or incentives for bringing your own containers.

Talk to the Farmers:
One of the greatest advantages of shopping at farmers markets is the opportunity to connect with the farmers themselves. Strike up conversations with them to learn more about their farming methods, ask for cooking or storage tips, and discover new varieties of fruits and vegetables. Farmers are passionate about what they do and are often happy to share their knowledge and expertise.

Embrace the Imperfections:
Remember that farmers market produce is often fresher and more diverse than what you find in supermarkets. Don't be deterred by a few imperfections on the fruits or vegetables—these blemishes often indicate a lack of chemical treatments and artificial ripening processes. Embrace the natural variations in size, shape, and color, as they are signs of authenticity and the beauty of locally grown produce.

Explore New Flavors and Recipes:
With an array of fresh ingredients at your fingertips, let your culinary creativity flourish. Experiment with new flavors and recipes using the in-season produce you find at the farmers market. Try making refreshing salads, fruity desserts, colorful stir-fries, or homemade preserves. The summer season offers a wide range of possibilities to tantalize your taste buds.

Support Local Artisans:
Farmers markets are not just about produce; they also offer an assortment of handcrafted goods and artisanal products. Support local artisans by exploring their offerings, which may include homemade bread, cheeses, jams, honey, olive oil, and much more. By purchasing these products, you contribute to the local economy and help sustain the vibrant community of farmers and artisans.

As summer unfolds in Contra Costa County, the farmers markets come alive with the vibrant colors and flavors of the season. By following these tips, you can make the most of your shopping experience and savor the exceptional taste of fresh, locally grown produce. So grab your tote bags and get ready to explore the bountiful offerings at your nearest farmers market—it's a journey worth taking!

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Farmers Markets Near El Sobrante, CA
Guide to East Bay Farmers’ Markets
Contra Costa Certified Farmers Markets

SPIRITUAL TOUCHSTONE

“Perhaps there could be no joy on this planet without an equal weight of pain to balance it out on some unknown scale.”
— Stephanie Meyer, author of The Host

Lately I’ve been thinking a lot about life B.C. (before COVID). It was certainly different than how we are living now even though we are no longer as heavily hampered as we were during the pinnacle of the pandemic in late 2020, early 2021. For example, it is summer opera season and at the two performances we have attended so far, almost every seat has been filled in the War Memorial and neither proof of vaccination nor masks are required to attend.

But even though we are back in the opera house in full force, everything else in San Francisco has changed. Retailers are fleeing downtown, empty office space is plentiful, and public transit is struggling. The soaring tech B.C. tech boom has gone bust and as a result, public coffers are no longer bursting at the seams.

In some ways, boom then bust cycles are normal in San Francisco, they have been happening since the Gold Rush and have also been instigated by catastrophic natural disaster busts followed by human-caused booms to support war and then eventually the dot com boom/bust tech boom most of us have witnessed since the beginning of the 21st century.

But is this just another boom/bust/boom cycle or did COVID really shift our society more profoundly? Do you feel different? What is better? What is worse? Where should we put our energy for creative change?

In my own view, I think we have all been a bit traumatized by the pandemic coupled with a toxic political environment being challenged by the growing and powerful Black Lives Matter, Me Too, and LGBTQ movements. And in our congregation, the impacts on our efforts to create The Good Table have been dampened and stalled by broken bureaucratic systems, a huge robbery in 2022, lack of specific technical advice and expertise, and the erratic availability of resources that are much more expensive, too.

At the same time, a project like ours is exactly the sort of thing that will help local communities thrive in new ways. We are creating a robust, yet flexible hub for social infrastructure that will provide a safe place for community to gather, grow, and create together. Plus, in times of emergency and/or disaster, this critical social infrastructure will even save lives. I CANNOT wait to be able to open our doors and welcome folks into a beautiful space that will provide food for body, mind, and spirit for everyone - no matter who they are or where they are on life’s journey.

While the road to creating The Good Table has been slow, and sometimes rough, we are still moving forward. Join us at a monthly community work day (last Saturdays each month, 12-3p), consider making an ongoing financial donation or introduce us to your networks by inviting us to come speak to your group. Help us bring this beautiful vision of a pay-what-you-can and pay-it-forward community cafe; local craft and food marketplace; organic tree and plant nursery with a farm store; and a gathering place for education, spiritual development, and the arts to final fruition.

* Original artwork by Tim Peacock

Click HERE to view the entire Newsletter!

IN THE COMMUNITY

Meet Rev. Dr. Melinda V. McLain, Pastor of The Good Table! Melinda gives us an update on all the site progress at the former Adachi nursery as well as her hopes for what TGT will bring to not only the El Sobrante community, but also the global community!

Special thanks to Jacob Day for conducting and editing the video, and to Pastor Melinda for chatting with us!

Click HERE to watch the complete interview!

Join us for our next Work + Fun Day!

When: Saturday, May 27th & June 24th from 12-3 PM

Where: 5166 Sobrante Ave, El Sobrante 94803

Sat. May 27th & June 24th will be our Community Work + Fun Days @ 5166 Sobrante Ave, 12- 3p. Wear sturdy shoes and clothing and bring work gloves and favorite gardening tools. And please bring a good quality mask so we can all stay safe from COVID and construction dust.

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