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Nov./Dec. 2005 Issue
Thankful for a pair of socks
by Jennifer Shike
Sometimes life seems to go by too quickly. Between NJSA shows, judging contests and weddings, every weekend has been filled up on the Shike calendar since state fair season began. Looking back on all of the places we have been this fall – from Idaho to Pennsylvania and from Texas to Minnesota – one thing stood out as a particularly memorable experience.
At Dan’s cousin’s wedding, the minister shared in her sermon about the traits that Tracy and Chris (the bride and groom) loved most about each other. I thought this was an interesting thing to bring up in the sermon and was anxious to hear what they had to say. Chris’s response was simple – he loved Tracy because she was so gracious. On one hand, that struck me as an unusual response. I’ve heard many couples remark on what they love most about their spouse, and that one had never surfaced among my friends. But on the other hand, I couldn’t deny it described Tracy perfectly.
As the minister continued on, she shared about Tracy’s gratitude for all the things she has in her life, and most significantly on that day, her relationship with Chris.
Later that night, my brother-in-law, David, told me that Tracy loved every present she was given like it was the best thing on earth… even when it wasn’t in most people’s eyes. You could give her a pair of socks, and she’d smile and jump up and down like she had just won a million dollars. She was always appreciative of what people did for her – no matter how big or how small.
People are drawn to Tracy. She’s the kind of person who lights up the room when she enters. I think this is because of the sincere gratitude she possesses for life. When you take the time to appreciate what you have, you see things in a different light then those who are always wishing they had something more or something else.
As the holiday season approaches and another year comes to an end, I always enjoy pausing a moment to reflect on the blessings of the year. And if you have enough money to show or raise pigs and purchase this magazine, then you are better off than the majority of the world. We have a lot to be thankful for in the purebred swine industry.
Looking back on 2005, I am overwhelmed and amazed by the quality of youth in our organization. I can’t tell you how many times I’m at a show and I remark to someone close by, “Aren’t these kids the best?”
I am very proud of our members and their families – they work hard and treat each other with respect at the shows. They pitch in and help wherever needed and give of their talents to help our organization move forward.
I am also thankful for our sponsors who have given of themselves so freely to provide opportunities and experiences for our members. We continue to meet our goals in fundraising each year because of the dedication and commitment our industry has to their future – our youth.
It has been an especially busy fall for the staff who work each of the NJSA shows. I want to again express my gratitude to Kade Hummel and Julie Williams for the long hours they have put in to making our shows a success.
The NSR staff, NJSA Board, NSR Youth Advisory Board and NSR Executive Committee continually commit themselves to help our organization grow and prosper. It’s a privilege to work alongside such talented people.
As you can see, I have a lot to be thankful for, and so do you. All of these people I’ve mentioned are just the tip of the iceberg. Behind them stand so many committed people who care about this industry. Let’s take time to appreciate their efforts and be thankful for what we have.
Moving into a new year filled with great opportunities and challenges, I encourage you to consider adopting a mindset of gratitude.
As Ralph Marston says, “When plans go awry, it’s not the end of your world. In fact, if you choose, it can be the beginning of your real success.”
Imagine what our days would be like if we took just a moment to be thankful for everything that comes our way. Even the hard times and suffering we face would remind us that underneath that difficult experience lies an opportunity to grow personally and better ourselves.
And, honestly, what’s wrong with being thankful for a pair of socks?
