Let’s Be a Serviceberry
Longtime GVLT friend and supporter Bob Sands recently reached out to share his thoughts about The Serviceberry: Abundance and Reciprocity in the Natural World, the latest book from author Robin Wall Kimmerer, and how he saw it relating to GVLT’s work. We were both extremely flattered by the reference and inspired to read the book.
Knowing our GVLT family shares a passion for conserving land and stewarding trails, we wanted to share Bob’s inspirational words and book review in case you are looking for your next read.
“The author of Braiding Sweetgrass has written a new book entitled “The Serviceberry.” Ms. Kimmerer thinks and writes from a Native perspective, exploring the concept of sharing within one’s community, as distinguished from selfishness and hoarding. The Serviceberry bush acts in community and shares abundance. Could this possibly be an example for humans to consider?
To me, it seems that recently, many people are thinking and acting in transactional rather than relational ways. Many are focused on “I want” rather than “We could benefit from.” I value sharing with our community, sharing with others who may be hungry, sharing with those who may be unhoused, and sharing with those who want to complete their education. If we experience abundance, share.
As I read “The Serviceberry,” I thought of the GVLT trails as a classic community example of the sharing of abundance. Our trails were built and exist and are maintained by GVLT…of the community, by the community, and for the community. Our trails exist because the community shared with each other when we experienced abundance, rather like the serviceberry.”
As Montanans, we have the good fortune of experiencing the abundance of the landscapes that surround us, which provide prime soils for agriculture, critical wildlife habitat, stunning big sky views, unique recreational activities, and the opportunity for connection. It’s up to all of us, as a community, to steward these lands so that future generations can continue to enjoy the same abundance.
Share Your Review
Did you read the book? We’d love to hear what you think! Haven’t read it? Pick up a copy at our local bookstore, Country Bookshelf.
Have another book recommendation related to GVLT’s mission? Share it with us!