In his novel Candide, or Optimism, the French author Voltaire sends his hero through all kinds of disasters. Candide’s teacher, Dr. Pangloss, keeps telling him it’s all for the best in this best of all possible worlds. That wasn’t true in 1756, when the novel was published, nor is it true today. What can we do to help make this struggling planet a better world for all men and women? What Candide eventually learns is that “when man was first placed in the Garden of Eden, he was put there … that he might cultivate it.” What can we cultivate?

Gather with your circle or community and plant a garden of flowers and veggies. Then plant a metaphorical garden that will bloom with friendship, good works, and realistic optimism. Join hands and declare this blessing:

We’re here to plant our garden,
Helping flowers grow,
Extraordinary blossoms
Only friendship can bestow.
So mote it be!