solstice presence
on composting and work
Two astrologers have told me that though I will likely not be a “writer” according to my natal chart, writing will be an important part of the work I do in this world. And both times this was told to me the words resonated. I am not trying to make a living as a writer, but I do need to write as part of my work. So I’m starting this space today because Solstices are potent times and I’m a believer of working with the energies around me. Today I really just wanted to be present in this current cycle of life we are collectively in and share what is coming up.
Last month I celebrated another year around the Sun. On that day, my teacher asked me if I knew what my life’s mission was. I told my teacher that while I’m not sure if it’s my mission, at this time composting continues to come up as an essential part of how I move in this world. I was perhaps downplaying it then because my teacher reminded me that that’s not nothing, and asked me to dig deeper. After some struggle I was able to share that composters are healers, transformers, death companions. She then added, “They also create Earth.”
For those who have not studied or practiced composting, composting is the human-managed process of transforming dying, decomposing organic matter into humus, or finished compost, a soil amendment that has many amazing properties. There are two types of composting - aerobic and anaerobic composting, meaning composting with or without oxygen. While both aerobic and anaerobic composting break down organic waste - releasing carbon, heat & water - anaerobic composting is much harsher on the environment because it also releases methane and hydrogen sulfide into the atmosphere.
I shared this little bit of science for two reasons. The first reason is purely me wanting to teach something about composting specifically within the political landscape of NYC. As a community composter based in Brooklyn, I’ve been frustrated to see people turn to the city’s anaerobic composting collections in recent years as their primary source of composting. I understand the ease and convenience of it, but is large-scale anaerobic composting really what we need to be supporting in the reality of global warming and climate change as we experience this heat dome? Perhaps it’s time for us to invest in community composting and divest from convenience and ease for all parts of our waste management? The second reason is something a little more beautiful. I shared this to remind us how nature teaches us everything. Nature in this case, is teaching us how healthy transformation requires all the elements working together - Air, Fire, Water, Earth.
It doesn’t always feel good to be alive on this Earth truthfully. Nine months of the genocide in Gaza. And that’s not even the only atrocity people are dealing with globally. I could tell you so much about what’s happening in India. But, another day. Yesterday I spent some time crying because I was outdoors overstimulated by the heat and noise and I realized I was taking water for granted when people don’t even have access to clean water. Deep gratitude and grief welled up inside me and thus crying in public.
Compost reminds me to hold it all though. We’re all in our cycles, rhythms, paths existing, overlapping and navigating. It can be overwhelming, hot, smelly and chaotic. Aerobic compost specifically reminds me that doing the work can lead us to healthier, more creative cycles — if you’ve ever maintained an aerobic compost pile, then you know how much work is needed to turn the decaying matter into beautiful new Earth.
Today as we move into the summer season, with the Sun at its peak here in the northern hemisphere, it feels like we have an abundance of time and energy right now. The people around me are seeking pleasure and joy, as we all deserve. But there is the reality of the heatwaves, death and destruction that is happening today as well. So I am here, just wanting to remind you to try to hold all the complexities and not avoid the work needed to make this next cycle a little healthier for yourself, for your community. A beautiful new Earth awaits.
Thank you for your presence, I look forward to sharing more. Happy Solstice, Happy Cancer season and Happy (early) Full Moon in Capricorn!
Upcoming community events I’m supporting/working that you’re invited to!
Solstice event at Hattie Carthan Community Garden
06/22, 3pm - 8pm at Hattie Carthan Community Garden, 363-365 Clifton Place
Join Spiritual consciousness Catalyst and Urban farmer Yonnette Fleming and The Hattie Carthan Healing Justice collective in our Summer Solstice process on Public Land. Our mission is to help folks trapped in urban cities understand the seasons and cycles of the Earth.
RSVP Here
Bed-Stuy Strong’s Annual Summer Party
06/30, 2pm - 6pm at Herbert von King Park (Marcy & Greene)
Join our mutual aid group’s annual summer celebration. We’ll have music, hot food, groceries, PPE, a free store, Narcan and more! We keep us safe!
Support us by donations or volunteering. Info found on our linktree.
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This is very timely. I just started the full compost process and a little guidance and education will be super helpful!