Such a powerful post. It will take me a few days reread and to wholly digest it. We truly are at a cross roads, at a reset point of redefining what living a successful life looks like, and it has little to do with how much is in our bank accounts. I too am looking to reassess. I have been a Shepherd for 20 years and am now looking at whether physically and financially I can do as I have been doing. I struggle with finding local connections. But the ones I have are precious. I also trade when I can. I trade socks I produce from my wool for whole chickens raised by a local Amish farmer. I also get raw milk and other meats from him that he raises and butchers on his farm. It has been an honor to be friends with he and his wife and children. He feels nourishing his community a sacred mission. I seek other such connections. Those that respect the land and understand the importance and reward of skills and hard work. I look forward to your posts on how you are getting on and where your unique journey leads you next as I am digesting my journey thus far and where assessing that will lead me next. Blessings to you.
I too struggle with finding local connections, it takes time and effort and it often feels like we are spread far and few but I think that's part of the value of the connection too. Your Amish farmer sounds like a true gem. I love that you trade socks for chickens! Such a beautiful recognition of the care and resources that go into each. Best wishes to you as you negotiate your next chapter, too.
beautiful
Such a powerful post. It will take me a few days reread and to wholly digest it. We truly are at a cross roads, at a reset point of redefining what living a successful life looks like, and it has little to do with how much is in our bank accounts. I too am looking to reassess. I have been a Shepherd for 20 years and am now looking at whether physically and financially I can do as I have been doing. I struggle with finding local connections. But the ones I have are precious. I also trade when I can. I trade socks I produce from my wool for whole chickens raised by a local Amish farmer. I also get raw milk and other meats from him that he raises and butchers on his farm. It has been an honor to be friends with he and his wife and children. He feels nourishing his community a sacred mission. I seek other such connections. Those that respect the land and understand the importance and reward of skills and hard work. I look forward to your posts on how you are getting on and where your unique journey leads you next as I am digesting my journey thus far and where assessing that will lead me next. Blessings to you.
I too struggle with finding local connections, it takes time and effort and it often feels like we are spread far and few but I think that's part of the value of the connection too. Your Amish farmer sounds like a true gem. I love that you trade socks for chickens! Such a beautiful recognition of the care and resources that go into each. Best wishes to you as you negotiate your next chapter, too.
Thank you for the links!
You're welcome!