Cyndi's Two Cents

Support networks are important

Commentary.

Several years ago, the National AgriMarketing Association (NAMA) recognized Leon Westbrock, an executive at CHS, as Agribusiness Leader of the Year.  Upon receiving the award, Mr. Westbrock – who has since retired – told those of us in attendance that he has a network of people that are the foundation of his success.

I was moved by Mr. Westbrock’s sincerity and appreciation for those who had influenced him and helped him throughout his life. The correlation Mr. Westbrock drew between his “people” and his success gave me cause to pause and remember some of those who have had a role in my success. I would encourage you to do the same.

I turned 20 in Brownfield years last month.  Much has happened since I signed on with this outfit.  My support network has changed as my life experiences have changed.  Although I remember them well, early influencers like Mrs. Ash, taught me to read.  She, like Mrs. King, who taught me to tell time, and Mrs. Bradshaw and Mrs. Franseen who helped me hone my writing skills are not part of my “active” network today.

The existence of a support network is crucial when we set out to achieve our goals individually as well as when we are working together toward a common goal.  In agriculture today, that support network might include family, friends, banker/lenders, agronomists, veterinarians and others whose advice, encouragement and support upon which you’ve come to rely.

There are others who fit into an opposition network category.  I’m not talking about challenging weather conditions or market volatility.  Those are variables that farmers and ranchers have lived with for years.  I’m talking about the well-known anti-agriculture groups like Humane Society of the United States, PETA, Farm Sanctuary, and Waterkeepers Alliance.  I’m talking about the environmentally misinformed who would have you farm without the use of herbicides, pesticides and other important crop inputs with no scientific research to back their beliefs.

There are individuals and organizations, businesses, foundations and even churches out there that unintentionally empower the network that stands against your farming practices.  I’ve been trying very hard to lean in to the conversation when I hear someone sharing misinformation about food and agriculture.  It is uncomfortable and can cause a rift with old friends and colleagues who have swallowed hook, line and sinker the deceptive messages employed by the anti-movement.  I have drawn strength and a renewed passion for busting myths and half-truths from my support network.

We don’t all have to employ the same farming practices, food choices or political and religious leanings to have one another’s back. My support network is far from blandly conventional! They provoke thought.  They inspire. They call me out when my passion about an issue prevents me from effectively communicating. They ask me the hard questions when they know none of us will like the answers.