Christian Lorys

Since eighth grade, I have enjoyed the simple pleasure of owning and operating my own backyard garden. My older sister begged me to create an herb garden for her through the brush that covered our shared backyard during the spring break of my eighth grade year; however, once I had spent hours creating the small plot for her, she decided she was no longer interested in the activity and my efforts had been in vain. Then and there, I discovered the joy of gardening when I refused to let my hard work be reclaimed by the Earth.

I believe gardening represents harmony and zen between ourselves and nature. It was the inspiration for my major, Applied Biotechnology: Plant Sciences, because it taught me to be fascinated growing and learning about plants. The small herb garden that once only consumed a small square in my backyard has blossomed into a fruit, vegetable, flower and herb garden that explodes to cover my entire back yard every summer. I grow everything from small herbs to tall trees and the experience has taught me the meanings of patience and caretaking. Gardening represents me because although it is an old fashioned hobby, it is a classic one that I believe can teach everyone something.