Opinion: Growing Produce Is The Gift That Keeps On Giving

By Paul Rusnak|December 1, 2013

So, who’s in the mood to party? Ready or not, we are smack dab in the middle of what is supposed to be the most joyous time of year. The 2013 calendar has reached its final page, and all the festive decorations abound remind you of the obligation to be jolly.
The heavy holiday schedule that occurs over the last few weeks of the year forces us all to carve out time from the hustle and bustle of work to spend with family and friends. While we celebrate, commiserate, reflect on the year that was, and count our blessings, there’s no need to feel guilty for wanting a little more.

Naughty Or Nice

Farming is a noble profession. The job requires a voluminous amount of input from all involved. Countless hours, money, blood, sweat, and tears are needed to succeed. The payoff (or present) — if all goes right — is a good crop. The fruit of your labors then is shared with others to be enjoyed, which is your farm’s gift to mankind. Talk about a process that defines what the holidays are all about: It is better to give than receive. Yes, giving is great and it makes you feel good. It’s in your nature. You are a farmer. But, on the other hand, receiving is pretty sweet, too.
As children, many of us spent time pounding out holiday wish lists filled with wondrous things we’d hope to get for being good little boys and girls. Why does that have to stop once you grow up? Well, the reality Grinch eventually steps into your life and leaves you with bags full of responsibilities. I think I’d rather have coal. It doesn’t seem fair. We all work hard. We’ve been good (or tried to) this year. A treat would be nice.

Wants And Needs

So, perhaps you’re past the point of sugar plums dancing in your head and concocting a holiday wish list is not part of your December to-do list anymore. But just for fun, if you did make a wish list this year, what would you ask for? A new tractor? A stable labor force? Affordable health care? Maybe it’s something more recreational like a new fishing boat, a slick set of golf clubs, or a barbecue smoker. Possibly you’re thinking of the bigger picture and a cure for HLB would be included. Maybe you long to win the lottery. Or, the hope is that you just break even.
Though you might not actually be writing a letter and sending it off to the North Pole, it’s OK to think big, want more, and expect more. This is what keeps us motivated, sharp, and young at heart. Cheers.