Holiday table talk: a wonderful experience for some, a scary proposition for others. In most instances, the discussions are fairly predictable.
My dad is a mechanic. Thus, he'll often be asked his opinion on cars and such. One of my uncles owns an IT business. Therefore, he enjoys talking about the latest technology. I have an aunt and uncle who are both teachers. No Child Left Behind has been a hot topic with them.
Lately, I've noticed family members have been asking my opinion on farm-related issues. Over Christmas I was asked why corn prices fell so quickly, what does the Farm Bill really pay for, is ethanol on its way out, etc. It seems some family members really wanted an answer, while others used a question as a way to start an argument.
In the days following Christmas, I pondered my role in the post-dinner family discussion. Throughout the conversation, it was easy to see the disconnect between the farm and the dinner table. For example, most of the family did not understand the risks associated with choosing corn or soybeans for the 2009 season.
All of my family members are at least three generations removed from the farm. However, their questions and comments demonstrated they realize the importance of agriculture. Even if they don't understand all the intricacies of farming, at least they know how vital it is to our economy.
As subsequent generations become further removed from the farm, I hope they at least realize the farmer's importance. After all, I don't know how a computer works, but I realize it's necessary in today's business world.
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