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In the beginning...
There's an older man, a postal service pensioner, mostly staying alone while his wife worked in another state.
Regularly accompanied by his only grandson, a very 'manja' little boy, Grandpa - as the boy called him - was a firm believer in healthy eating. He insisted on fresh ingredients for everyday cooking, which meant a daily trip to the market.
However, Grandpa had a peculiar way of choosing fruits and vegetables. He would inspect them closely, only selecting those with visible signs of nibbles or little holes from insects. He never chose the perfect ones.
There were two reasons for this unconventional approach. Grandpa explained that perfect-looking produce often indicated heavy pesticide use by farmers, leaving harmful residues. Additionally, he believed insects and animals had an instinct for selecting the best-tasting fruits, making their nibbled selections ideal.
That's Grandpa - always ensuring the best food for the whole family without compromise.
And yes, you guessed it right! The 'manja' little boy who always accompanied Grandpa is me. Grandpa took care of me every school day from the age of seven until I was 14.
This was in the mid-'80s, a time when organic produce was rare, and farmers relied heavily on synthetic fertilizers and pesticides.
Reflecting back on those days, I realize how Grandpa's wisdom was ahead of its time. In an era where convenience often trumped health, he remained steadfast in his principles. His teachings on the importance of natural food have had a lasting impact on me. They influenced my decision to pursue organic farming, ensuring that my family and community have access to healthy, pesticide-free produce.
The lessons I learned in Grandpa's garden have become invaluable. They have guided me through the challenges of modern agriculture and sustainable living. Even when I faced severe illness and physical disability, the values instilled in me by Grandpa helped me persevere. Today, as I watch my own children tend to our garden, I see the continuation of his legacy. It's not just about growing food; it's about nurturing a way of life that respects nature and prioritizes health.
Gardening has always been more than a hobby for me; it's a testament to Grandpa's influence and a tribute to his dedication to wholesome living. From the small balcony garden during my college days to the expansive organic farm I once own, each plant I nurture is a nod to the man who taught me to appreciate the nibbled leaves and imperfect fruits. These imperfections, he said, are the true signs of natural, healthy produce, free from the taint of chemicals.
Join me on this journey as I continue to embrace and share the lessons learned from Grandpa, fostering a love for gardening and a commitment to healthy eating in my children. Through this, I hope to honor his memory and keep his teachings alive for generations to come.
Picture of me with grandpa, early 80's
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