By Christine Johnson, Chair, Young Farmers and Ranchers
Have you heard the statement that “farmers are the original environmentalists”? Sounds like a stretch. What may first come to mind are visions of tree-hugging, fish-loving social justice warriors with hidden political agendas. Yet, upon further consideration of the term, an environmentalist describes one who cultivates and respects the land, animals, and resources that the earth has provided — essentially a steward. I believe this truly describes those who feed and clothe our nation.
Our goal with the Kern Young Farmers & Ranchers group is to promote agriculture in a variety of different ways — through education, relationships, fundraisers, and scholarships. Scholarships, in particular, are practical ways to focus on supporting the next generation of those who will care for our environment. The 4-H, FFA, and college students that apply for our scholarships and agriculture grants are doing the work of sustaining the environment by learning to responsibly raise animals or by focusing their higher education efforts on agriculture’s multi-faceted industries in today’s world such as crop science.
When the time comes every year to distribute our agriculture grants and scholarships, I am amazed at the students who apply. It is humbling to read the essays and hear very personal stories of how each student landed in agriculture. Some of these very talented individuals I’ve had the privilege to meet in person. This year, as I reviewed the nearly 50 essays for our agriculture grants to 4-H and FFA students, I was touched by the recurring themes of determination and resiliency. Some students mentioned financial hardships, single-parent households, or grandparents who made sacrifices so they could participate in raising an animal for the fair. Other students noted future goals such as saving for college or starting an almond farm.
Learning about the aspirations of these students prompted me to ponder on determination and resiliency. I often journal quotes that inspire me, and over the past few years, I’ve assembled some sayings of the ancient Stoic philosophers. Here are a few paraphrased quotes:
- “Define your fears to see that they can be easily defeated.” – Seneca.
- “See difficulty as an opportunity to prove yourself.” – Epictetus.
- “Remember what you’ve had the courage to already endure.” – Marcus Aurelius.
- “Focus on the smallest step you can take.” – Zeno.
- “Don’t be afraid to ask for help.” – Marcus Aurelius.
- “Make courage a habit – seek out challenges, practice voluntary discomfort and do what you are afraid to do.” – Seneca.
I believe some of the students who applied for our agriculture grants understand truths far beyond their age. We were honored to choose 13 winners and award them with $400 each. Check out our social media for the individual winner names. Thank you to those who support our efforts so that we, in turn, can support the next generation.
Reach out to us on social media to learn of our upcoming events and mark your calendars for a tour of the Pandol Cold Storage facility in Delano on August 10th at 10 a.m.
Email: KernYFR@KernCFB.com
Instagram: @Kern_YFR
Facebook: KernCountyYoungFarmersAndRanchers
