keeping our focus on what matters

Fall is winding down. For us, it’s been 8 weeks of pumpkins and all the fun that goes along with this season.  I never get tired of it; I just get tired.  Winter rest is just around the corner.   

I am thankful for the Fall...there is something about the harvest of pumpkins, squash and gourds that brings a level of accomplishment.  Even better is the feeling of watching people enjoy the harvest.  When I am driving around the community and see pumpkins displayed on porches I always wonder if they came from our farm. 

Adapting to supply chain delays and work force shortages presented a new set of challenges to overcome this year. Let me take a moment here to say how blessed Dan and I are with the staff that we have. Staff who shows up faithfully and works hard for each other, for our community and for us.   We were all forced to think outside the box!  We thought 2020 was the challenge; but it was only the warmup for this year.   Even though we all feel a little worn and weary, the sense of what we have been able to achieve this year renews our energy as we head into a different season. 

The holiday push from media started weeks ago. As a business, we had to map out our Thanksgiving and Christmas plans far in advance.  Schedules had to be inputted and product orders had to be placed, days, even months ago.  However, there is a difference between the commercialism of this season and its true meaning. As we countdown the days on a calendar, I am determined, like every year, to stay in tune with what matters.  For me, Thanksgiving and Christmas is about gathering, giving and celebrating the birth of a Savior. 

The Grinch had a lot of insight when he thought, “Maybe Christmas doesn’t come from a store. Maybe Christmas, perhaps, means a little bit more.”  That certainly doesn’t seem like a strong or successful marketing campaign.  However, our approach is quite different, and I am good with that.  It’s authentic.   As you do plan your approach to spending this season, please strongly consider the impact your purchases can have on your local economy.  More importantly, prioritize what matters the most. 

A few weeks ago, I had the privilege to speak to a group of Pennsylvania Future Farmer’s of America students.  I shared with them some important math:

On average:

• For every $100 spent at a chain store, $13 goes back into the local economy…WHEREAS
• For every $100 spent at a small/non-chain-owned business, $48 goes back into the local economy. 
  
  

We took the time to consider what that means on a bigger scale:

• If you choose to shop at 6 chain stores, that results in $81 dollars going back into the local economy (6 x $13) verses
• If you choose to shop at 6 locally owned businesses, that results in $288 going back into the community. (6 x $48). 
  
  

Over time that adds up, significantly.  I am not trying to discredit any store here – I also enjoy convenience, but I also make an intentional effort to shop and support local.   Caring about where I can make a direct impact is my personal approach to spending and is also the starting place for our business model.  I encourage you to do the same. 

So, this season, start with deciding what matters most.  Mother Theresa said, “It’s not how much we give but how much love we put into giving.”  Give yourself a little respite from the frenzy of the media and the pressure to create a sky-high pile of gifts under the tree.  Determine what matters most to you and to those around you this season and make that your priority. 

I pray that you have a season of gratitude and abundant joy,
dB