Successful Farmers

[...] What then, is a successful farmer? A successful life, in any calling, makes the world better. But before we can better the world we must cultivate all our faculties. Nature gives to some ten talents, to others two; if they put them to good use they will both receive their reward. But if anyone allows his gift, even though it be but one talent, to lie idle, he will be condemned. Do we not see it everyday? Those who employ every power of mind, body and soul triumphing and ruling over those who allow their energies to waste? It is to be hoped that every reader of this has some mind. It is their duty to improve it. Intellectual improvement affords a mine of pleasure to the possessor and benefits the little world in which he has influence. While a successful farmer diligently cultivates his fields he will not fail to cultivate his mind. The farmer has some time to read and study, and much time for observation; both will improve his intellect. Increased experience with greater years will mature the fund of information thus gained, and it is obviously his duty to impart it for the benefit of others. For the successful farmer will seek in every way to improve the methods and practices of his calling.

“No man liveth unto himself.” We all exert some influence. If life is a success, that influence must be exerted on the side of the right and honesty. There are men whose word is as good as their bond, and who possess a character of sterling integrity and great moral worth. Without these elements success in farming or any honorable employment is impossible.

A successful life is always a kind life. The man who beats his horses, scolds his wife and quarrels continuously with life. There are men for whom the community mourn when they die. By cultivating kindly relations with all decent people, they endear themselves to the community at large.