ABOUT SIMPLE-MINDEDNESS…..
In a facebook comment last week, I was described as being simple-minded. I never read the posting, but I was told that the comment was not meant to be flattering. Which is too bad. This author obviously doesn’t know me…because…
I am quite proud of the fact that I am simple-minded. My mind is often pre-occupied with figuring out simple solutions to complex problems.
For example, when I lived in Victoria BC ( 1992- 1999), I became very interested in the water restriction issue. The Capital Regional District was dealing with escalating public flack about water restrictions during the summer months. The gardening capital of the country was browning down and people were not happy. Having had some experience with xeriscaping (landscaping using drought tolerant plants), I decided to knock on the door of the Region’s Environmental Engineer. I was a single mom on welfare so I had time to do these things. With one kid on my back and the other in a stroller, I was welcomed into his office. He was open to discuss any suggestion that could be helpful.
I pitched the idea of developing a WaterWise Gardening Education program as a means of dealing with the water restrictions on gardens, particularly lawns. He was very interested and took me seriously. So much that he asked me to present the idea to the Regional Commission. He figured it was less risky for him that way…in case the idea didn’t fly. So I did just that (kid-free this time). The 20 some people around that table didn’t care that I came from the Maritimes, that I was a single mom and on welfare, or that they hadn’t asked me for my input. They didn’t seem to mind that I just came out of the shadows to address them with what I thought could be a helpful suggestion. When I was done, they were floored by the simplicity of the idea that I was presenting to them and wondered why the hell they hadn’t thought of it. They gave the engineer the go-ahead to work with me on this plan and after about a year the program was launched and the program still exists today. Dozens of people have had jobs as a result and more and more people have adapted their landscape design to be more in tune with the dry conditions of Victoria summers. And the program has partnered with several other groups and organizations, including schools. Simple. Reduce the need to use a lot of water in landscaping and you won’t have to deal with water restrictions.
I have a few other good examples of the results of my simplemindedness. I chose this one, because it has overlays of what is currently going on here in Perth-Andover.
I have no interest in politics. I am not an industrialist. I don’t pretend I have anything to offer in those realms which I realize are two critical realms to get us out of the mess we are in. However, I am a person who has a strong interest in social issues and community building – also critical areas that need work for our communities to develop. When presented with problems, I research, reflect and act upon ideas that I think may work. Some do. Some don’t. And if you knew me, you wouldn’t be afraid or uncomfortable about some of my efforts.
SO MAKE MY DAY: CALL ME SIMPLE-MINDED. I LOVE IT!!
Francine St.Amand,
California Settlement
