Agriculture Leaders

As a freshman in college, I have recently looked back on my experiences in 4-H and FFA in my younger years. Growing up on a ranch and always living with the background of a country life, it never dawned on me when I was younger that others didn't get the same experience I did. Well, sure there was the fact that I didn't get to go over to so-and-so's house to play or do homework with them because I lived too far away, but I also had nature's finest all to myself right in my own backyard. I would find myself walking the cow-trails, or herding the sheep, or wandering through the barnyard just to see what I could find in moments of boredom. These everyday pleasures have surely left me for now as I sit on the third floor of my brick dorm building.
However, I have to remember why I am here, on the third floor of a brick dorm building. I am here to develop my passion and pursue a career in what I find most interesting to me. Agriculture has always been a part of my life, however; now it is my duty to educate those who have not always had a playful hog, or docile steer to turn to in times of loneliness. It is my duty as a member of the agriculture team to positively advocate the industry on a whole, so that those who are unfamiliar with our industry may better understand it. There are several ways a young person can do this. Whether it be through 4-H or FFA, or through different agricultural programs such as the Beef Ambassador Program or the Young Cattlemens Committee, we can all choose to make a positive difference for the betterment of tomorrow.
Having served in many offices in 4-H and FFA, and pursuing my passion for agriculture by showing livestock at the county fair, as well as serving on several agricultural based committees I have only seen a small part of what I can do to make a difference. My biggest wish in the agricultural industry is for every single person involved to make at least on positive action each day. Just imagine how many lives we could touch by informing others and empowering them with our knowledge. I know it would make my day brighter if I could continue to make a difference in the lives of others with small, positive actions. Let's all take action by being involved in this industry of agriculture. Let's all be agricultural leaders!