Yesterday, I finally told Jessie about the fundraising efforts we are all making to help pay for the medical expenses and loss of income she is facing. Her initial reaction was tearful dismay that people would bother and worry about her. Typical of her nature, she just said, "I'm fine. There are so many who need help more than me." But slowly she was able to understand that this small expression from all of us of our gratitude for her shining spirit and all the help she extends to others is a very real example of the community we strive to be. Whilst Jessie's work with Viva la Vida Foundation is centered on agricultural evolution, building community lies at the heart of all we do. Without community, our agricultural efforts are meaningless.

Jessie will soon be in touch to express her gratitude in her own words. For now, know that she continues her journey both outwardly and inwardly to find deep meaning in this experience - from the physical, mental and emotional challenges of being injured, to the spiritual questions of a destiny path, to the recognition through empathy of things that could come to her heart and soul in no other way. Her days are filled with therapy and the needed rest afterwards, communion heart-to-heart with her husband and her mom, joy and laughter at each new healing step, and infinite gratitude and acceptance of it all.