Farmers often say, "Life is like a bowl of cherries.
Unfortunately, many people do not realize how much work goes into producing just one single bowl.
Fruit farming is not only about planting trees, cultivating soil and harvesting fruit; it is about understanding the environmental relationship between all of those aspects. I have learned that if my family does not take care of the land, we are out of a job. Therefore, as farmers, we develop a sensual and emotional connection with the work and the land around us. In my mind, there is nothing better than eating our fruit, fresh from the tree.
I am a sixth generation fruit farmer who has spent my life learning the ins and outs of the job. At an early age, I could be found following my grandfather around, watching his every move. Even before I was given a job of my own, I loved being a part of the family business and learned new skills every day.
Working together as a family has taught me that the more effort we put into something, the bigger the payoff. I am getting the most out of my life because my family and I are enthusiastic about keeping our farming tradition alive. Since my life is what I make of it, it is important to find activities that make me happy and to do them.
I have a huge sense of pride knowing that the fruit we grow reaches so many others. One of our greatest rewards is being dedicated and knowing that at the end of the day, not even Mother Nature or a lousy market can take that satisfaction away.
Unfortunately for fruit farmers, certain elements are out of our control: weather conditions, low market demand and unexpected tractor breakdowns top the list. The most tedious components are vital to the harvest process. For example, unpredictable changes in the weather, like one hail storm, can wipe out an entire crop. Even a weak tractor belt can stall the process, thereby making it take longer to reach our quota for the day. Having the skills to work through these obstacles allows me to learn from the past and work toward the future.
Although farming comes with a "lug" of challenges, hard work and determination prove to be a success. Once given the necessary tools, I am able to work through my dilemmas and come out on top. Whether I am pulling wands, setting up tanks or mastering temperamental farm tractors, I always learn something new. My experiences thus far have prepared me for whatever comes next.
I am proud to say that I will always be a fruit farmer's daughter. The legacy my family has made will undoubtedly show me the other "fruits" that life has to offer.
Sonya Sayler is a senior at Elk Rapids High School.
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