Kindness Is the Backbone of All That I Do

My flower business bloomed right here in Over-the-Rhine People’s Garden, and over time, it’s become more than just a garden—it’s a classroom. Nearly every time I’m there, adults and kids come by asking to help, curious about the food and flowers growing, and eager to learn. I love being able to share my love of gardening and nature with my neighbors.

Summer Camp kicked off this week at Wesley Chapel Mission Center in Over-the-Rhine. I’ve been volunteering there for the past decade, offering a few free garden sessions to students each summer—something that fills my heart every single time.

Yesterday morning, while tending to the Sunrock Farm garden, I was already thinking ahead. With all the recent rain, I knew we wouldn’t need to water—a favorite part of our time together, since the kids usually arrive during the hottest part of the day. I needed a plan B.

Then I remembered the mini glass bottles a friend had donated to me. There were still plenty left. I could almost hear her saying, Use them. That’s what they’re for. (Thanks Crystal)

So I packed the vases and headed over to Over-the-Rhine People’s Garden, unlocked the shed, and grabbed enough clippers—thanks to a generous grant from The Burrow Foundation a few seasons ago—and waited for the students and staff to arrive.

When the group poured into the garden, we spent the first half of our time harvesting herbs like mint and lemon balm, and flowers like bachelor buttons, poppies, and paper daisies—learning about their healing benefits and creating mini arrangements to take home. Then we planted marigold seeds, cherry chocolate sunflowers, and rainbow corn—seeds gifted by a kind friend who believes in this work and donated them for moments just like this. (Thanks Greg)

It felt like everything had lined up exactly how it was supposed to.

That’s what I find so magical about this garden work—how kindness shows up from so many directions. I give my time and flowers, yes, but so many others give too: a client donates vases, a friend buys seeds, a foundation funds tools. It’s a collective effort. And it means that when 25 or 30 excited kids walk into the garden, everyone has what they need to fully participate. No waiting. No sharing one tool. Just learning, connecting, and growing.

Kindness truly is the backbone of everything I do. I believe we attract what we put out—and when you lead with your heart, the rest has a way of falling into place.

Volunteering doesn’t have to be complicated. It can look like sharing what you have, showing up when you can, or simply saying yes to a need. It all matters.

For me, teaching people about Mother Earth—her plants, her wisdom, her magic—is one of the greatest joys of my life.

Here’s to a summer of blooming together—and letting kindness lead the way.