23
Nov
As we enter the week of Thanksgiving, we pause and realize just how much we have to be grateful for. Here are a few things for which we are grateful this year.
1. Family
As a family-owned and operated business, there is no way our farming operation would be in existence without our family. From cousins and uncles to children and grandmothers, we’ve got some of each working here at Southern Valley. We are so grateful for our immediate family and our extended family who work with us – and support us behind the scenes – as well as our work family formed through our employees and co-workers. We love that our farming operation truly is a family business.
2. Employees
The amount of time and energy our employees put into the success of our business is not lost on us. From the sales, shipping, and logistics staff who are on call around-the-clock to the ladies in the packing house who stand on their feet all day to the field crews who brave the heat and the cold to bring in the harvest. We are so grateful for each employee.
3. Employment
Not only are we thankful for those that work for us, but we are thankful that we ourselves have a job and even more grateful that we have the provision to offer employment to others. What a privilege it is to be employed doing something we love and to be able to employ family members, friends, and others in the communities surrounding our farms. We have been abundantly blessed.
4. Farming
We can’t think of many more noble pursuits than that of helping to feed our neighbor. Not everyone is willing to deal with the risks of farming in order to reap the rewards. There are risks to be sure: inclement weather, insects, failed crop, and labor shortages – just to name a few. Yet, the reward of watching a plant grow from a seed into a product that can be consumed for nourishment is like no other. We are grateful for the opportunity to produce food which nourishes the body.
5. Freedom
When we look around at the world today, or even watch the news, we are reminded of the freedom we have – and too often take for granted – as Americans. Freedom of religion, freedom of speech, freedom to choose our elected officials. Oftentimes, we debate our freedoms and how far those rights extend, but truth be told, at the end of the day we are still a free people. And for that, we should be thankful.
6. Generosity
Our attitude towards generosity is best summarized by Austin Hamilton in a recent email to me, “I love giving to others when there is something to give.” This statement is lived out by the Hamilton family on a regular basis as they truly delight in sharing with others. As a general principle, we love to be able to give and help others where possible, be that a monetary donation, a food donation, or a source of employment and income. It truly is more blessed to give than receive.
7. Faith
On this day and every day, we are thankful that we serve a Sovereign God. One who has not missed a moment and One who freely offers salvation to all who will believe in Christ his Son. He has been a faithful provider and we know that all good gifts ultimately come from Him. For this, we are thankful.