Updated: May 26, 2020
At the end of March 2020, Sparrow had to say a sad and tearful goodbye to our first Scarborough home. We are thankful for the generosity of our former Landlord who allowed us to farm his 1/4 acre of land with no strings attached. Such is the heart of an incredible man whose gift multiplied a thousand times. As the saying goes, "You can count the seeds in an apple, but you can't count the apples in a seed." It has taught us that one cannot measure the blessings and gifts that come from the heart of a single cheerful giver. What seemed like just a grassy backyard yielded bountiful harvests over two years. To our dear Landlord, from the bottom of our hearts, 'Thank you, thank you, thank you.'
Perhaps you have read the children's book entitled "The Little Engine That Could." A small and seemingly insignificant train engine rises to the challenge by pushing through hardships and barriers, rescuing distressed and abandoned toys along the way. Her famous line is the repeated phrase, "I think I can. I think I can." Today, this story comes to mind as I think about Sparrow & Co. in our current situation. We have hearts that burn with passion to forge the way ahead despite the absence of farmland. However, we are even more determined to do whatever we can to meet the needs brought to us. There are real people in real need. Sparrow & Co. is going to help fill that need this year: We know we can.
The sudden loss of land was an emotional one for us. But nothing could have prepared us for what transpired next. Out of the woodworks come everyday, regular people who want to participate in our mission this year. Sparrow supporters come forward telling us they also want to setup or offer their own backyards for planting vegetables for donation to M.I.N.D.. Unused and empty spaces transform into food sources for the hungry. Purchases of our vegetable seedlings for personal gardens also provide the much needed financial support for our cause. It astounds us, really, and we are so very thankful for cheerful generosity in the midst of these trying times.
How many apples come from a single apple seed? Too many to count, my friends. Too many to count.
