MARCH IS NATIONAL AGRICULTURE MONTH. I HOPE YOU CELEBRATED ACCORDINGLY.
Many of you reading this grew up like me, in small, rural communities sprinkled throughout the Midwest. Whether you grew up on a farm or not, we likely have something in common. We are rooted in agriculture. Maybe subtly, maybe prominently … but in one way or another, agriculture plays a role in your life, much like it does mine.
Let me elaborate. The FFA Motto and 4-H pledge have been ingrained in my memory since I could form words. I vividly remember gathering in my hometown to recite these vital phrases and further plans to act on them.
I’m thankful the agriculture industry taught me to live by these words and for other paramount lessons learned through life on a farm.
As my World Race launch draws nearer, I want to emphasize how intentionally my upcoming year of service was decided upon. To do that, I need you to read and reread the FFA Motto and the 4-H pledge.
My dad was my high school ag teacher and FFA advisor, and my mom was my 4-H Club leader. So, I was raised in a family of service. I have been surrounded by influential leaders and those dedicated to service my entire life. I think many of you raised in rural farming communities could say the same.
“The harvest is great, but the workers are few. So pray to the Lord who is in charge of the harvest; ask him to send more workers into his fields.” Matthew 9:37-38.
-
I find this agriculture analogy so ironic. He knew service was needed and invited “agriculturalists” to act.
I like to think of myself as a mission-driven person. Incidentally, I strive to put service first by serving the Lord and serving others. The commitment to service I have embodied my entire life is a key driver in my World Race experience. I truly feel pulled in the direction of larger service and feel His encouragement daily to press on in acts of love.
If you happen to still be reading, I pray you say the same about yourself. I’m prompting you to lead by example daily! Whether it be in your community, throughout the country, or worldwide – commit to a life of service. I promise you won’t regret it!
Much love,
Carley
