The last few weeks have been insane with the activity, or lack thereof, associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. Our normal way of life has been turned upside down on its head.
These unprecedented times have brought many changes—a lack of toilet paper and hand sanitizer, but a plethora of news stories, opinions, and comical memes.
Farmers and those involved in agriculture have been deemed “essential” to the country and our battle of this pandemic. This is something that I personally am humbled by and do not take lightly.
Being deemed “essential” does not mean that I am more essential than the next person. It simply means that my profession cannot stop for the virus.
As a farmer, I know our jobs are essential to the health and well being of not only this nation, but other nations as well. I don’t do it for fame nor fortune. I do it for many reasons, one of which is that I believe we are ALL ESSENTIAL. Your health and well being is just as important as mine, and I can assure you that each and everyday when I head out to care for our livestock, my number one responsibility is producing safe food. That safe and nutritious food is the fuel that makes the people of this great nation carry out their essential daily activity. Whether it be your local volunteer firefighter, farmer, grocery store worker, pastor or even a movie star, we are all essential to making this nation great.
As a farmer, I’m an essential worker. I’ve made a commitment to make your food my priority. That commitment was made years ago when I became a farmer. Amid this pandemic, I maintain that commitment. Know that I do not think of myself as any more important than the next. I believe we are all essential. I’m just doing what I love and keeping a promise—provide safe food and feed families.
Stay safe. Stay well. Thank you for supporting farmers. Thank you for believing in us.
-Chad Herring