Precious Gifts

As I write this column, it’s a few short days until Christmas. Throughout my family, everyone is anxiously waiting Christmas day, when they can finally unwrap presents from loved ones and see if they got exactly what they asked (or longed) for. That’s the nature of the season.

Across our industry, I’m sure a similar scene will play out in homes from Garfield, WA, to Bangor, ME and everywhere in-between. Of course, I’m betting most of my friends in the ag retail or equipment businesses won’t find what they asked for during 2009 under any Christmas tree. The fact that they have survived two of the most turbulent years on record and are still in business is probably the greatest gift they could ever receive. And though it’s too early to tell for certain, indications are 2010 will be a much more normal year, which could be the best gift of all for seriously stressed ag representatives.

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As for myself, I’m in a similar mindset when it comes to presents in 2009. I don’t really need anything material for the holidays (though a few gift cards might be nice). I’ve already opened my presents for the year – the continued love and support of my family, gainful employment (which has seemed to be the exception not the rule among my circle of friends and peers this year), and good health. Most precious is my 20-month-old son, a child I prayed for for 23 years before he finally arrived. Watching him experience his second Christmas (particularly now that he’s old enough to open and appreciate his own presents) will be something I will never forget.

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So to everyone that regularly reads our e-newsletter, I wish you a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays in 2009! May all your gifts be as precious as the ones I’ve been blessed with this past year.

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