Count Your Blessings

As I'm sitting here at my grandpa's house, I realize I have much to be thankful for. For one, it is the Friday after Thanksgiving and I am (for the first time since I was very little) NOT running around stores trying to grab the last highly sought after electronic or dish set for an honestly not-so-low, just super-hyped-up, price. I love deals, and I have loved the bonding time with my cousins, but for some reason being a "poor college student" this year has dampened my Black Friday spirt.

Secondly, I am thankful for such a great FFA family, headed by my advisors, Mrs. Kreatz and Mr. Wolf. Last Tuesday, I had the opportunity to give presentations all day in the Ag Building at my high school. I have learned so much, and while my initial ideas and beliefs haven't changed, my eyes have been opened to new ideas and beliefs. I much more aware (even though I know I have much further to go) of different perspectives in agriculture, and I have a great respect for all perspectives. To share that with my friends back home was a great experience. I see so much potential in the faces of those still sitting in the seats I did just a year ago, and I'm thankful for that. I'm especially thankful for Mrs. Kreatz and Mr. Wolf who can take and mold that potential, just like they did, and are still doing, for me.

Thirdly, I'm thankful for all people of agriculture- from the big producers like Premium Standard Farms who produce pork to feed countless, employs countless, and is an essential component of the economy of Northern Missouri, to the medium sized producers who may raise both grain and livestock, to the small producer who may raise specifically for a niche market. I am also thankful for leaders in agriculture who are helping make it so for future generations.

Fourthly, I'm thankful for all the experiences I've had so far. I'm thankful for the people I've met, the stories I've heard, and the innovations I've heard about. I'm thankful for the friends I've gained at college and for the professors who are passionate about what they teach and look to encourage their students on their paths.

Fifthly, I'm thankful for my family who has been behind me from the very beginning. Without their support, I may not have had the guts to get to where I am now nor to continue on towards an uncertain future. I'm thankful for their encouragement, advice, and listening ears.

And finally, I'm thankful for my Savior and for the character of God. I'm thankful for having the assurance that everything will turn out, because He's got it under control. He is good, and I'm excited to see what He has for all of us!