While we should be thankful for our blessings every day of the year, it is natural and traditional to reflect on our blessings during the holiday season. I read a recent article by John Hoblick, president of the Florida Farm Bureau. He wrote about the blessings of Florida Agriculture and it got me to thinking. We Floridians are really very blessed to live in a state rich with agriculture.
Let’s count our blessings . . . We have a tremendous selection of fresh Florida grown fruits and vegetables at our fingertips all year long. From Florida blueberries to oranges, we have healthy living and super fruits at our beck and call. There are thousands of small farms peppered across our state with growers working hard to give us the foods we need and want.
To enjoy a Florida beach, we need to drive only a short distance to put our toes in the soft sands and enjoy the fresh sea air. Or, we can pack a tent and find relaxation camping at a state park or hiking by one of Florida’s rivers or creeks. With the many U-Pick and We-Pick small farms in and around our region, it’s easy for us to get fresh fruit while enjoying the great outdoors.
So, during this season of giving thanks, remember to thank a local farmer for contributing so many blessings to us all year long. I wish you Happy Holidays and a fruitful New Year!
CREDITS
column by MICHAEL MARTIN
BIO: Michael Martin of Martin Law Office in Lakeland specializes in agriculture and environmental legal representation. A native of Polk County, Mike attended college at Sewanee in Tennessee, before obtaining a doctorate in law from the University of Florida and has tried numerous cases nationwide since that time. Mike also serves as the director of the FFA Foundation and is the author of the novel, The Crestfallen Rose.
