Sacred Soil and Change

In looking at Trish Knox, and the gentle way she holds herself, you might not see the deep waters of courage and willingness to dive into a cause she believes in. An author, activist, mystic and deep ecologist, Trish brings to the table the heart of change.

"It is about the call of the sacred soil," Trish explained her calling in life to me one afternoon.  “Right now I live on a small farm and am involved with the Heritage Garden in Woodinville as the treasurer and educator… If you look at the gardens they are like huge medicine gardens much like you would find in the native tradition.” 

This way of seeing a world within the world is nothing new for Trish. Raised in Puyallup and deeply influenced by the indigenous peoples, her passion has become what many consider deep ecology. Her fundamental belief of the interdependence of all living beings has propelled her into the world of social activism and community building. The latest incarnation of her life’s work has been to develop Community Threads, a non-profit based out of Woodinville, dedicated to weaving the “expression, education and celebration of community through classes, events and concerts that promote peace within oneself, in the world and with Nature.”

With the mission of education, art and love of nature Trish began to write her book "Circle of Life- Mapping One’s Story." Using the principles of deep ecology and native wisdom, the mandala of one’s life is explored through the directions and storytelling. From her experiences with writing her book she was presented an opportunity to expand Circle of Life into a radio show (in conjunction with Story Tellers Campfire) that chronicled the stories and lives of many native elders in the Pacific Northwest.

Trish recently discovered the Transition Movement, founded on the principles of Rob Hopkins. With determination and a spark, Trish gathered the information and structure to successfully create a sustainable group and formed Transition Woodinville. Transition Woodinville is a small but mighty group so far, with monthly gatherings centered on education and community building.

After our conversation what struck me most about Trish wasn’t her list of achievements or her courage in questioning the status quo, but her belief in people and our ability to change our world if we just choose to listen to what the earth has to share.

You can find Trish at Heritage Gardens, Transition Woodinville Events or with her feet in the sacred soil.