Only in growth, reform, and change, paradoxically enough, is true security to be found. — Anne Morrow Lindbergh

IN TODAY'S SESSION... the children heard about Michael Covington and the Georgia Street Community Garden, an urban gardening and community center in Covington's home neighborhood in Detroit. We explored the earth power of growth by decorating pots and planting herbs, and we investigated the journeys our food takes on its way to us. We learned about the impact that producing, transporting, and selling food has on our environment and communities.

EXPLORE THE TOPIC TOGETHER. How does your family make ethical choices around food? Are there foods you won't eat for ethical reasons? Are there places that you shop, or don't shop, because of ethical considerations? How difficult is it to find fresh and healthy food near where you live? Are there neighborhoods you can think of where finding fresh food is more difficult?

FAMILY ADVENTURE. Go on an ethical food-shopping trip. This might mean a trip to a farmers' market or a store that offers local, organic produce. It might mean buying food to share with a food pantry or a neighbor, or shopping at a store whose labor practices you approve of. It might mean buying eggs from free-range chickens or milk from cows that have not been given rBGH. Talk about one change your family might make to bring some aspect of your eating in line with your values.

FAMILY RITUAL. Before you begin a meal, take a moment to consider the food and where it originated. Thank the plants, animals, farm workers, and cook(s) who allowed you to eat this meal.