Thanksgiving is a wonderful time to enjoy family and reflect on all things for which we are thankful. It is celebrated each year around harvest. A farmer can truly relate to being thankful for the harvest just as our ancestors were. But, I think the farmer is thankful many times throughout the year, not only at harvest.

A farmer is thankful for a successful planting and spring rains, sunshine and nice weather, the birth of a healthy calf, a bountiful harvest, running equipment, and most importantly that everyone comes home safe everyday.

Years ago at a local farm meeting, a faithful local farmer gave the prayer for the meal. I remember his words of thanks and, “no one is closer to You, Lord, than the farmer”. Those words have stayed with me all these years. A farmer prays for many things throughout the year, but always thankful for so many blessings.