Do you want to hear a little about the “in-between” times today? There I was, riding in a big, nice 4×4 work truck. The work wasn’t hard. As a matter of fact, it was just routine. I could almost have done it with my eyes closed. Red light to red light, going point A to point B, and just doing the things. Wash. Rinse. Repeat. Have you ever felt that way? Have you looked at where you were and wondered why you’d arrived at that point in life? Worst of all, have you been there, in near misery, and had no one you could confide in. Have you had dreams and plans so close, yet so far away?
That’s where I was. I had a good career. I had good pay, benefits and “The Retirement”. But I was wasting my life away. I was missing my kids’ childhoods on so many levels. I was disconnected from what I cherished most, my wife and sons. All I could think was, “We only do this once.” We all only get one chance to be here and do the things we find important, and I was missing out on mine. I’d be gone early, and home late. I would work random hours and never knew which part of Alabama I’d find myself in from day to day. Making sacrifices. But in my case, I had planned the exit and was so close I could taste it.
I knew it was all coming to a close. I knew there were co-workers I’d miss, but my family was ready for the change. I was ready to do a job where I could really help people again. I wanted to provide for locals in my community. Every day I would iron out details, rehash the plan and, with those I trusted, I was saying my goodbyes. After all, I was leaving a job I’d done for thirteen years. Some I had known and worked with for ten years. I was glad for the good times and all of the memories. But the only thing permanent is change, and it was time for mine.
The time came, and I dropped the bomb. I let it out that I was leaving. You should’ve been there. They all thought I was crazy, and making a huge life mistake. Maybe I did, and maybe they still do. I wish them all the best. It was my choice to make, and I did. I remember a man from my past, a real leader that said, “Punch your fist into a bucket of water and pull it out. Watch how fast the ripples stop. That’s how fast you’re replaced at a job.” Poof…I was gone, and it all marched on. For me, it took about two weeks to realize that I had really left my career to come home and be your farmer.
When it actually hit me, I pushed the pedal to the floor and haven’t let up yet. I can’t. Dreams come true with hard work, sweat, and lots of prayers. I tell my sons they can do anything, but if I don’t swing for the fences how can I expect them to? Nobody gets off this rock alive. Go chase your dreams, and let me know if I can help.
Later Alligator, Nick@FiveSonsFarm where it’s Farming. Done Right.
