'earth mother' right here in merced!

we've a new distinction here in merced; 'earth mother' has arrived...an is now dedicated!

earth mother isn't new, of course; she has been around for ages (about 30+ years if i am remembering correctly), but she now graces the campus of the UC and has found a home at the early childhood education center.

interestingly enough, our UC campus has focused on being a very 21st century campus, utilizing the latest forms of recycling water and air circulation.

unfortunately, when the center was built, the location where 'earth mother' now stands was like a world-wind center; this, it is hoped, will be the perfect piece for that location.

the center itself is a wonderfully welcoming location, at the very entrance of the campus.  the children look as though they are thriving, with space to play, as well as that perfect mix of educational and recreational activity.  what i remember about what use to be called nursery school, was playing, coloring, wooden chairs, and gram crackers and juice (an ucky combination in my estimation!) or milk (yum!)

 

the woman who stands near the dedication plaque is the artist, lynn, who has been part of our community for many years, and has donated a number of her wonderful pieces throughout our community; our congregation is one of the happy recipients.

lynn dedicated 'earth mother' to the memory of mary lou george, who was also a member of our congregation.  mary lou was instrumental in securing the UC in merced.  there was a huge effort in helping to have the central valley be the recipient of such a campus.  and we are being blessed by all those who have offered their energy, and continue to provide leadership to expand higher education in merced and throughout the central valley.

and so it is advent, a time when we think of those who paved the way to give us life.  a mother and a father, mary and joseph, who were called upon to bring into a turbulent world, a child named jesus.

before stores opened to sell their 'ya gotta have this' kind of merchandise, a couple was offered to raise this child for our lifetime....and over 2,000 years later, we light a candle of hope as that first light of preparation as we seek to continue to follow in 'the way'. 

and what we can offer in return is to share what god has shared with us...each of us have something to share...leadership, talents, direction, teaching, care...so many things; lynn has shared her art for generations to come.  the gift received; thanksgiving shared; hope restored.  what will you share this chirstmas?