Future Farmers of America

As I was folding laundry this morning, I came across Kyle's Wickes FFA T-shirt. I've seen him wear it a million times but for some reason just glanced upon the front and read the words " Learning to do, doing to learn, earning to live, living to serve". Somehow this motto has slipped my attention but I found the words to be compelling.

I clearly remember sitting several times at FFA functions and hearing the creed being read with a big lump in my throat. The exact words eluded me but I remember the feeling of having a pride in the organization and feeling a very strong affirmation for my own occupation.

So, I've attached it for you to read. I think whether you are involved in agriculture or not, these are captivating words.

I believe in the future of agriculture, with a faith born not of words but of deeds - achievements won by the present and past generations of agriculturists; in the promise of better days through better ways, even as the better things we now enjoy have come to us from the struggles of former years.

I believe that to live and work on a good farm, or to be engaged in other agricultural pursuits, is pleasant as well as challenging; for I know the joys and discomforts of agricultural life and hold an inborn fondness for those associations which, even in hours of discouragement, I cannot deny.

I believe in leadership from ourselves and respect from others. I believe in my own ability to work efficiently and think clearly, with such knowledge and skill as I can secure, and in the ability of progressive agriculturists to serve our own and the public interest in producing and marketing the product of our toil.

I believe in less dependence on begging and more power in bargaining; in the life abundant and enough honest wealth to help make it so--for others as well as myself; in less need for charity and more of it when needed; in being happy myself and playing square with those whose happiness depends upon me.

I believe that American agriculture can and will hold true to the best traditions of our national life and that I can exert an influence in my home and community which will stand solid for my part in that inspiring task.