Farmers don't get enough credit, it's as simple as that. Take a second and think about all the things farmers do for us. They harvest fruits and vegetables, raise cows and pigs, but most importantly put food on our tables. Every year is different for a farmer, some easier than others. It's impossible to predict a good year for farmers. It's risky because of weather and input costs are incredibly high. People don't truly understand what these farmers go through each and everyday to make sure that we have food and drinks on our table.
Even though they go through a lot for us, the truth is they wouldn't trade it for the world. Whether it be waking up when it's still dark out to milk the cows, or making sure the calves are fed, farmers start their day earlier than anyone else. You won't hear a farmer complain about waking up this early. It's what they do and it's what they love.
Imagine all the products we would be without if we didn't have farmers working their tail ends off everyday. Milk, ice cream, cheese, fruits, vegetables, etc; all these things would not be on your table without the hard work of your local farmer.
Farmers feed us, it may seem obvious, but it's pretty amazing that such a small chunk of America is farmers and that small chunk feeds the whole nation. Farmers feed America. Farmers know the meaning of hard work. It's not your typical 8 a.m.-5 p.m. job, they can't take a day off from tending to their crops or animals, they work their asses off, all for us and their families. The 40 hour work week has very little meaning for families that run America's farms. The 24/7/365 is more of the number that these families are used to. Speaking of families, farmers are family people. The odds are that the farm has been passed down from generations before, and family has played a key role in the success. Most often, Mom and Dad are both out getting chores done throughout the day, and the children begin to contribute their efforts at a very young age, eventually taking over. In their pursuit of their vision of the American Dream, American farm families work hard proving dedication and determination that shows the well being of their family today and in hopes of showing in generations to come.
Farmers struggle to receive the credit they deserve, but do they complain about it? No, they don't, because they love what they are doing. So next time you see a farmer, make sure you thank them for all they give you and your family, because without them what would we be? So raise your glass of milk to all the hardworking farmers in America and around the world.
“Farmers farm for the love of farming. They love to watch and nurture the growth of plants. They love to live in the presence of animals. They love to work outdoors. They love the weather, maybe even when it is making them miserable." - Wendell Berry.
