For most, the fall season is a time spent with family visiting pumpkin patches, going to the local orchard, or enjoying nature. However, for approximately 61,000 individuals in the state of Missouri, fall looks a bit different. The American farmer is found in the fields harvesting the crop he has grown for the past six months. For the farmer, harvest is a time of celebration, sacrifice, and tradition.
A Time of Celebration
When referencing harvest you may think of the common phrase, “You reap what you sow.” For the past six months agriculturalists have been anticipating this moment. The time where farmers watch what they planted, and tended to consistently, perform. Harvest is a time of celebration, not only for the farmer, but their family, bank, and community. This season brings everyone together in celebration of the dedication, grit, faith, and patience found in the agriculture industry. Harvest not only highlights the work put in for the current crop but motivates everyone for the next season. Personally, harvest is a time I enjoy riding with my dad in the combine, bringing meals to the field, and embracing the work on our land. This season brings family back to the farm, for time together and reflection on their hard work.
The Sacrifice of This Season
Harvest season is a sacrifice of time away from loved ones, gatherings, and milestones. During this season there is one place where you will find the farmer: in the driver’s seat. Whether it’s a combine, tractor pulling a grain cart, or semi taking the grain to the local elevator, the time spent in these seats is not just 8 to 5. These days are long and hard, before the sun rises, until well past dark. Personally, when growing up, I didn’t understand why my dad couldn’t make my school event, or why he wasn’t at the dinner table for supper, or to tell my brother and I goodnight. However, you soon learn this is a way of life, well beyond the season of harvest. Respect the farmers during this time as they want to be with their families celebrating milestones, but their livelihood and legacy for the next year is reliant on this season
Harvest is a time when farmers’ patience, hope, and flexibility are tested. With the uncertainty of weather, finances, time, and resources, farmers are stretched. But with the love of their family and support of the community, farmers can remain grounded on a firm foundation. Take the time to help the local farmers. Offer them a meal at the field, take a ride in the combine or, give them a call. Small acts are what keep the farmer going, reminding them of their purpose during this demanding time.
Founded on Tradition
The tradition of harvest is founded on feeding the world. This practice has evolved into something greater than ever before. Through innovation of technology, the industry has machinery that can cover large quantities of acres. Science has created an avenue where we can take some of the unknown factors off the farmer, like seed hybrids that increase yields and withstand unideal environmental conditions. Yet, despite all these advancements, one thing remains constant: the farmer. You can’t replace the tradition of the farmer who sleeps little and cares greatly about the quality of their crop. Harvest doesn’t just feed us; it feeds our livestock, powers our world, and drives the economy. Our country has a rich history and tradition of agriculture, which will continue into the future. We can’t forget the foundation that has brought us here. It is important to continue the family legacy through the tradition of agriculture. Now more than ever, the industry is creating job opportunities that let us come home. Raised with the principle to leave things better than I found them, I hope to carry on this tradition in my home, community, and beyond.
The Impact of Harvest
Harvest reveals the story of the past, present, and future. Through this season, farmers’ crops share the story of their dedication, faith, and sacrifice all while celebrating the success of reaching the end of another growing season. Harvest allows families to continue their legacy and brings local communities together. It gathers us together, leaving an impact on the land and family story.