“Let us not forget that the cultivation of the earth is the most important labor of man. When tillage begins, other arts will follow. The farmers, therefore, are the founders of civilization.”  Daniel Webster

I’d like to add to Daniel Webster’s quote. God is the Creator of all things, therefore civilization is ultimately under His protection.

We took our weekly drive yesterday afternoon and couldn’t help noticing the bounty of sweet corn still in the fields, waiting to be harvested. There’s still a haze covering the heavenly expanse, but life continues to exist in the parched ground below. Some farmers are facing drought conditions, while other more affluent farmers have access to irrigation systems. No matter what the weather, no matter how much we fuss or fret over it, God is still present in His creation.

Paul is finishing up a camp with seniors 55+. They’ve been focusing on watercolor art, which is new for some of them. The goal of all of Paul’s classes and workshops is to have his students realize it’s never too late to start something new – to explore your inner talents – to expand your horizons – and in the process make some new and lasting friendships. One week and his mission has been accomplished. Since my husband is known for his gift of gab as well as his gift for art, it’s easy for him to communicate those very things to his students.

In a way he’s a farmer. He plants the seeds, nurtures them as they grow, tends to the weeds that get in the way of their growth and provides tools for them as well. Both of us have always felt this way about our talents. They are indeed gifts from God and a means whereby we can magnify His name. Even as we are aging and withering, like many of the crops this year, there is still life in us. As long as that exists, we have an obligation to share our knowledge and blessings with others. God makes the difference in the sowing of the seeds.. He is the Master Gardener and will bring life when it looks like there’s none to be found. We are merely the caretakers of His creation.

Thank a farmer today. They are the backbone of our nation – even when it looks like there’s no hope for a fruitful harvest. They take chances every day in their occupation so that we can reap the benefits. Many of the difficult tasks connected with farming have been replaced by machines, but the willingness to risk everything is still alive and well.