I enjoyed reading Eric Bergeson's recent article in which he shared about his learning to listen. But that isn't why I am writing. Not exactly. Unless it is in the sense that life has lessons to be learned if one is listening. I recently got an earful. Please allow me to explain.
I have a friend that grew up in the Fertile area. She is an avid gardener. She knows I am a wanna-be gardener. She was planning to attend a class at Bergeson Nursery and as I had expressed interest in growing apple trees to her at some point she invited me to go along. I thought, "This should be interesting." But not necessarily because of the apple trees.
I have to confess that prior to the last one he wrote, I hadn't bothered to read Mr. Bergeson's articles for some time because I don't agree with his "politics.' When I reflected on our little trip over to Fertile I found that my anticipation of the day was colored by my assumptions. I am hesitant to say, negative assumptions... but there it is. In black and white.
One of my favorite things to do is wander around in green houses. I find it inspiring. Another favorite thing I enjoy doing is observing people. So naturally I thought perhaps this outing would allow me to partake of both. Sure enough. But little did I know that the observing would not be of Mr. Bergeson but more, of myself.
We arrived at the nursery just before the class was to start. When we entered the store area there was someone playing a really fun song on a piano. Incidentally, another one of my favorite things and another of my wanna-be dreams. I thought, "Listen to that guy go! Can he play! I would love to be able to tickle the ivory like that." It was Eric Bergeson on the piano.
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Throughout the course of the next hour or so, I learned that Eric is not only an authority on various fruits and their care but he is a multi-talented fellow with quite a gift in music, photography, public speaking and, I must include, as a writer.
I don't really know what I was expecting but I will tell you what was. It was very apparent that Mr. Bergeson knew what he was talking about as he shared information with the class but he did so without a trace of arrogance. He listened to questions and dismissed concerns without diminishing the person. His up-beat attitude and quick wit made the class not only informative but really fun. He is quite humorous. Genuinely so. He seems to be doing not only what he enjoys but something at which he excels as Bergeson Nursery is obviously a successful business. If I understand correctly, Bergeson Nursery was started by Eric's grandfather in the 30's. I think this is an awesome heritage, but I mention it because throughout the class Eric referred to his grandfather, his Dad and even his brother. He told of their abilities and ideas. He may not have even realized it. But to me it showed an evident respect that he has for each of them and a humility of his own.
If my faith dictated that I do penance for my wrongs, I would go to the nearest source of gooseberries, that Mr. Bergeson described as nasty tasting, and eat a gallon bucket full. Or I would eat several, large, particularly soft Red Delicious apples, which Mr. Bergeson said were not fit for human consumption, in one sitting.
Since I don't have any gooseberries nor mushy apples, I will settle for a humble pie. Right down to the last crumb. -- Gina C. Bergh, Audubon
