TULSA, Okla. — Oklahomans are finding different ways to cope and get through the weeks of uncertainty as the pandemic continues.
“I didn’t realize what I was getting into," Andy Wheeler said. "But now that I’m in it, it’s like what’s next? I was a very novice, I still am a novice gardener and I was trying to find a way to channel my anxiety and maybe help the community out."
Wheeler lives on Independence Street and as the name of the street suggests, he’s inspiring others to become more self-sufficient, especially during times of economic and food uncertainty.
“Supply lines might be stressed. There’s things that might not be available on the shelves soon," Wheeler said. "We’re trying to get people up and running in a way they can provide for themselves and not have to rely on others.
He created the Facebook page "Independence Street: Community Self-Sufficiency" which encourages followers like Molly Callahan to exchange information and post questions about gardening and growing your own food.
“It’s kind of a neat hobby that you can keep it at a basic level or you can get really complex with it,” Callahan said.
It’s a hobby that not only gets you moving, but keeps your mind busy by offering an escape from the outside world.
“One of my favorite things to do is to come out into my garden with a cup of coffee and just piddle around, and catch some fresh air and sunshine," Callahan said. "I think all of those are good for people right now.”
Andy hopes sharing what he and others have learned through this process will help everyone come out better on the other end.
“I think everybody is anxious. They’re trying to figure out what to do next," Wheeler said. "I remember Mr. Rogers telling everybody to look for the helpers. I’m trying to be a helper.”
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