Grandpa’s Journal

Or

Reflections of a Gentleman Farmer

On Keeping a Journal

Having reached the advanced age of almost 67 years old, I have been challenged by a young friend to record my reflections on my life and practice. I have always thought highly of the title “Gentleman Farmer” and while there may be some who would hesitate to claim the designation, I have been bold before on other matters so I will be bold here. I value the name of a gentleman and hope I have some honest claim to that title. This does not refer in my mind to any statement concerning wealth for I find that ladies and gentlemen may be found in all walks of life when we meet those who treat other human beings with respect and care. Neither does it refer to educational achievements for I have walked with some very highly educated people who were certainly not gentle. No, it has to do with a perspective on people that values others, respects them, and shows care for them. In other words, those who keep the second commandment of Jesus. If any read this who do not know what that is, then find a Christian at once and ask him or her.

I fear the title of “farmer” would be greatly in dispute if I had to prove it in court but I consider it here to be a reflection of my wish and not so much a reflection of accomplishment. My herd at the present time consists of three hens and a rooster. We also have a pet dog but he would bristle at being considered a part of the farm animals. The chickens live in an old dog pen next door to his pen and he ranges all about outside their home, but he ignores them as is right for one who is far too dignified to give attention to those who are his social inferiors. Our dog is not and does not claim to be a gentleman.

We also have a garden and have had for several years. While my father was a farmer and a very good one, I must admit that most of our garden’s success is the result of my wife’s knowledge and labor. Still, I did not claim to be a good or successful farmer so perhaps I am not straining too much to just claim the title.

It is my intention to put up these reflections on my website. See, I told you I had been bold before. After all, anyone who is vain enough to think the world needs to know his thoughts enough to put them up on the web is certainly bold enough to advise the world by publishing a journal. So I will put these up and if you find them useful, well and good. If you do not, then just don’t read any more of them.