Food has a long history of bringing people together, especially during the holiday season. No matter our religion, political beliefs or which football jersey we wear, we can amicably sit around the table and enjoy our neighbor’s company with a warm meal. Food surrounds us in times of happiness and in times of sorrow. It is something we cannot live without and part of something bigger that we often take for granted. Agriculture.
With the holiday season among us, I can’t help but reflect on the reasons I have to thank agriculture for the gifts it provides not only during the holidays, but every day. This is why I thank agriculture:
Auburn University!
- I thank agriculture for introducing me to my best friends, career and passion.
- For the farmers and ranchers who don’t take a holiday off from raising livestock and growing crops.
- The dedication to animal care that all farmers share, not matter what size their farm.
- The people who care about the future of animal agriculture as much as I do.
- For the dairy cows and farmers who provide high quality cream for my coffee addiction.
- Bacon.
- All the students currently studying agriculture and working to become a voice for our industry.
- For giving me the peace of mind knowing that our country has the safest food supply in the world.
- The many choices in the grocery store – whether its produced a certain way or has a certain label, I know it is safe and nutritious.
- Chicken, turkey and pork free from added hormones…also known as all chicken, turkey and pork in the United States.
- For all the farmers who have hosted a farm tour and have reminded me why I love doing what I do.
- All my favorite wool and cotton sweaters, socks and scarves that keep me warm during the winter.
- For not only my food, but for the food I feed Zaza and Barney.
- The colleagues in the sheep, beef, chicken, veal, turkey and dairy industries who at the end of the day unite for animal agriculture.
- Knowing that when I find a recipe online I can find the ingredients just down the road.
- The things I use every day that I don’t realize are made with by-products from animal agriculture.
- The small, but mighty team I get to be a part of at the Animal Agriculture Alliance.
- And a million other reasons!
The men and women involved in agriculture are some of the most dedicated, passionate and hard working people I know and to work on behalf of people I have the utmost respect for is an honor.
I hope everyone has a happy holiday season and remembers to thank agriculture for for all the presents it provides without fancy wrapping paper or bows. Please join me in sharing why you thank agriculture on social media with #WhyIThankAg!
