True Americans Who Make Our Country Great
I am reminded every time I visit the Hollis Livestock Auction why America is truly great.
First, let me say my family owns the local livestock auction and have for over fourteen years. I am proud to be part of rural America and the farming and ranching industry. I must say I have come across those who are uneducated or misinformed who find this occupational area less than desirable. For instance during our adoption when I had to list our occupation with the agency they said, “You run a livestock auction?! Let’s just say you are in “sales”.” I found it funny. Would they rather have let our children languish away in an orphanage than have them running free on a farm, learning hands on, and yes, stepping in cow patties? It is also funny when Kelissa is doing pageants. The girls will be comparing notes on their standing in society when parental occupations often come up. Many of them are the daughters of doctors, lawyers, bankers, etc., so when Kelissa says, “My dad owns a salebarn!” eyebrows go up and conversations stop. Funny she usually wins interview. America became great because of rural America and it will continue to be great thanks to those involved in agriculture. It saddens me because I see that America has lost sight of those who have made our country great. You needn’t go any further than our salebarn to see the greatest people alive. These are the ones with principle, integrity, and character. A handshake guarantees their word. They know about a hard day’s work. They don’t believe in getting something for nothing. I am qualified to say this because I see their hands and their sun leathered faces. Those two things don’t lie about how hard a man works. I get so sick when I see where our country is headed. I see how out of touch our government is when it comes to these small town people. I wonder where all the common sense has gone. Did it die when rural America began to die? I wish our government knew half as much as these people. I'm so proud I have had the privilege of growing up on the farm and raising my children on the farm, and yes, I'm also proud our occupation is in the agricultural arena, even if it's offensive to some. (those who don't know where an egg comes from) lol! Any time you need a word of wisdom or just a word of encouragement sit down at the cafe in the local livestock auction. You’ll be amazed what you might walk away with.
