I have often wished that I could live in a simpler time. The hustle and bustle of the big city is alluring to many people, but I have always longed for the quiet, peaceful countryside. Now that I am here I have to chuckle at how noisy country life can be sometimes. The farmers preparing their fields for summer crops drive huge noisy tractors back and forth across their fields stirring up giant clouds of dust. Truck after truck hauling fertilizer pass our house every few minutes all day long. In the distance I can hear the lowing of cattle accompanied by the chorus of sheep. Dogs barking echo across the valley for miles. Roosters greet the sun every morning with reckless abandon, then continue crowing at will until the sun disappears over the other horizon. So much for the quiet countryside.
Many people have the misconception that a farmer lives a peaceful and serene life. Farming, however, can be one of the most demanding jobs you will ever come across. Farmers are not allowed to take sick days. There will be no one to cover them if they get injured. They don't get to claim workman's comp. No one to care for their crops or livestock if they want to take a vacation. Many farmers don't even make much profit on their farms and many years they are lucky if they get to break even.
So why would anyone want to live this life you ask? Many of the farmers I talk to say that they take a lot of pride in what they do. Their work feeds families. They are stewards of the earth. Many of them are more in touch with the cycles of life than most city dwellers. Yes, their job can be back breaking and heart wrenching, but watching a crop go from tiny seedling to something worthy of a meal is like helping a miracle take place. Who wouldn't want to take part in working miracles?
Very cool thoughts!
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