Farmer Quote by Charlotte MacLeod
““No alumnus of the Class of ’73 would ever forget that electric moment when Thorkjeld Svenson in his Commencement remarks clove a solid oak podium neatly in twain from top to base as he slammed down his fist to emphasize those deathless words, “Agri isn’t a business, it’s a culture!” As a farmer’s highest calling was to serve the earth, but to be merry withal in his labor, so was a hog entitled to its wallow in good, soft mud and a cow to its cud of sweet, fresh grass beneath a shady tree before each fulfilled its ultimate destiny. No fowl went from incubator to coop to stewpot without ever once getting its claws in real dirt to scratch up its own worms.””
About This Quote
Source Speech: Commencement Address, Class of ’73, unknown institution, 1973
A vivid anecdote illustrates that agriculture is a cultural calling, not merely a business, emphasizing respect for all living things and their natural roles.
In simple terms: Farming is a cultural duty, honoring nature and animals.
Key Takeaway
Treat farming as a cultural practice, not just profit.
Themes
agriculture
culture
respect for nature
humility
Mood
reflective
inspirational
Type
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- farm management
- animal husbandry
- environmental education
- community events
Key Concepts
sustainability
ethics
interconnectedness
Questions to Reflect On
- How does viewing farming as culture change your daily work?
- What responsibilities arise from this view?
A Different Perspective
May overlook economic realities of modern farming.
