Planting Flowers and Walk for Values: Boulder & SE Denver, CO
On April 26, 2025, twelve members of the Sri Sathya Sai Baba Centers of Southeast Denver and Boulder, CO, partnered with the Heather Gardens senior community for a special spring event. They planted flowers to celebrate Earth Day and participated in a Walk for Values to spread human values.
A Sai Center member and a resident of the community, approached the Heather Gardens Landscape Committee who enthusiastically supported the idea and gave the green light to proceed. Sai Center leaders then met with Sharon, a landscape committee member knowledgeable about native Colorado flowering plants, to select those that would thrive in the local climate. Residents were warmly invited to the event through a flyer with a Love All Serve All theme.
The day kicked off with warm welcomes, introductions, and a prayer. Sharon offered invaluable planting tips before participants were divided into groups. Together, they planted a vibrant variety of flowers, including pansies and purple cabbage blossoms, in six pots.
After the planting was complete, each participant chose a Values sign — like Peace, Joy or Love — featuring a quote that resonated with them. The Walk for Values began. Along the route, several cars stopped, curious about the signs and the walk's purpose. Six-year-old Siddarth proudly displayed his sign, which read, God is Love - Live in Love. A passerby stopped to ask him about it. Siddharth explained it was his favorite quote from Sri Sathya Sai Baba. The man responded, "Mine too. It is a wonderful way to live, and you are a good example of what we need more of." As he drove away, he declared, "God bless you!"
Towards the end of the walk, the Sai volunteers encountered three women planting flowers in front of their building. The Sai volunteers explained the significance of their Values signs, how they practiced these values, and that the walk aimed to inspire others. One woman commented, "We need more of that in today’s world," and encouraged them to continue their efforts.
Following the walk, Sai volunteers enjoyed the camaraderie with the residents, and discussed the day's activities. Some shared how the walk had provided an opportunity to "shine a light on the good!" They also expressed their gratitude, savored tasty snacks, and had meaningful conversations about Sri Sathya Sai's message of love and service with other residents in the main entryway of the Heather Gardens building.
Sharon expressed how much she enjoyed spending time with the Sai group and appreciated their selfless service and dedication to spreading values. Building residents were also grateful, commenting on how beautiful the flowers looked draping the walkway. Overall, it was a truly special day that engaged the community, with Sai volunteers making a meaningful difference through sharing Baba's loving message.