Victory Gardens

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During World War II, citizens were asked to participate in numerous projects to show their patriotism.

For the war effort, selected vacant lots were assigned to hold collections of rubber from small balls to large tires. Other unoccupied lots might be assigned to collect aluminum, so it could be melted down and re-used to build airplanes. The assortments were varied, and many. Pots, pans, and aluminum toys could be seen everywhere!

The nation was also asked to use dark green window shades that were nearly black on the outside. These would block any light escaping a building in case of a blackout warning.

Periodically the sirens were tested so people would be familiar with the sound.
Certain homes were given a special “Block-Mother” card to place in the front window, so that children who were not close to home could rush to a safe place, in the event that an air raid signal was sounded.

As an impressionable child of 10 years old, I remember that the schools were provided propaganda films to be shown to the children. We actually sang songs about Hitler, making fun of him.

One of the most important things that I can recall is that people were encouraged to plant small gardens. My parents always had a garden with rows of carrots, green beans, corn, radishes, lettuce, turnips and onions. In addition my dad had planted a row of seedless boysenberries and a pear tree. To add to our provisions we also had chickens, and rabbits that provided us with eggs and meat.

My teacher asked if anyone in the class had a “Victory Garden” at home. Of course, I did! Our home was situated in the same long block on which the school was located. It did not require crossing any streets, in order for the class to take the short walk to view our small farm. My teacher arranged the excursion, hoping that this would encourage others to plant a Victory Garden at their homes.

How proud I was! I would be the leader of the parade and show off our mini-ranch! All the children were excited to see our backyard plot.

Having this garden was as simple as planting some seeds and tending to them. Tenderly watering, and of course gently weeding the plants helped them flourish.
Beyond that, it took time for the garden to grow and mature.

In life, that is the way it is with us. A pastor or teacher plants the Word of God in our hearts. Others may water the Word, and on occasion, “OUCH!” - It is time to pull some weeds. It is the matured Word of God in our hearts that causes us to lean on Him for direction in our lives.

As you ponder your past and consider the future, I’d like to leave you with this.

“May your life bloom and produce good fruit (and vegetables) so that there is Victory in your Garden!”

2Timothy 3:16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:

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