Posted by & filed under In the News.

The commercial: God Made a Farmer speaks of many things that a Farmer is and does.  A farmer grows food, works long hours and puts in more hours in the first 3 days of the week than most people do all week-long.  And that includes if they work during the weekend.

Although it did not share the joy and excitement of getting up early in the morning, eager to see his friends and feed them. 

I am talking about the horses, cows, goats, rabbits, chickens, sheep, and a list of other animals that the farmer takes care of and nurtures.  But do not forget the Dogs who accompany them or the cats that keep the barn and outbuildings free of rodents.  The wild birds that clean up the excess feed that spill or are left over from feeding.  Not even the field mice that help clean up bits and pieces as they scamper about and live their lives on the farm.

Thoroughbred breeding farm

When I managed a Thoroughbred breeding farm, I had this one horse named Oh My Gawd!beautiful-horse If I wasn’t up early enough for him, he would make sure that I got up.  His field was right next to my house.  As a matter of fact, it was close enough to him to kick dirt from the field and hit the side of my bedroom wall.

What a great way to wake up!

He would call out to me and then run around to make sure that I could hear him.

 

When I was up and outside, he would come over to the fence, say hello, get his morning greeting from me, then prance around waiting for his breakfast.  I loved every morning that I got up to such a greeting!

 

It is the times of pure joy and shared love with the animals that is one of the best rewards.  When I see an eagle or a hawk flying overhead looking for a meal, or a blue Heron standing in the pond leisurely eating their meal.

Work, Work, Work!

Yes, there is a lot of work to being a farmer.  Irrigation pipe for feed crops, mowing, health care for all of the animals and equipment maintenance. Buildings to take care of as well as relationships with other farmers, friends that love to visit because of the peace that comes from sitting on the front porch and seeing what God has made.

 

For me, every time I see a horse or other animals that are healthy and happy, I know that they are being taken care of by a Farmer.   One of the best compliments that I have ever been given, was by our local Veterinarian.  He introduced me to a new vet intern as “The Herdsman” of the ranch.  It was an honor to be called that by this Veterinarian, for he has seen the way I love and care for all of my animals.  Humans included.

 

What is it that gives you your enthusiasm and joy of being a farmer or caretaker?

Share your story, It frees your soul and brings joy and hope to others when they can understand what it is that drives our desire to help!

 

For me, it is the relationship with the animals, human and otherwise, that has taught me that yes, God has made us all.

 

I am always happy to be called a farmer.  It is a great compliment in my life to know that I am a caretaker.

 

Have a great day!  Remember, you do not need a sports event to create A Super Bowl!

 

Turning Your Dreams into the Life of Your Dreams

Chris Downs, the Caretaker

Founder hisfarm.org and Ambassador of Natural News and Sustainable Living on How to Live on Purpose.com