Filed under: May 2018 | Tags: Friendship, good-bye, leadership, retirement, swing shift, thankfulness
May 17, 2018
After 27 years working an off farm job, I have made it to retirement! I can now spend my time working draft horses and this farm. Of course, I will now have more time for family and friends, as well as, other passions of mine. All those years of swing shift and missing out on things are over…it was worth it!
Three years after I hired in, I took a job in salary. I had a few people give me great advice, but I took the job anyway. You see, I thought that I could make a difference. After all those years and countless ups and downs, I was reflecting upon my career and thought that I hadn’t made much of a difference at all…that was until these last few days.
People at work sought me out to say good-bye. I shook hands with lots of folks, shared a hug or two as well. I got to have some one-on-one time with several guys and each time, I felt humbled. The comments made me choke up at times. Guys thanked me for my leadership, my candor, my honesty and for keeping them safe. It was a team effort people, we did those things together. I thank every one of you from the bottom of my heart for your help, your kindness and the respect that you showed me over these past years.
I thank you for the laughs, the memories and even those moments that made me grow! I missed some of you due to our crazy schedules, but fear not, I wish you all well and I know that you too send good feelings my way.
It is still a big place with lots of opportunities, but this afternoon, as I walked out the gate for the last time…I realized that I had indeed made a difference…thanks to all of you!
4 Comments so far
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RicelandMeadows 
Yay!!!!! I’ve only got 4 more years!!
Comment by Chad and Maria from No Harm In Farmin May 17, 2018 @ 10:50 pm4 years is nothing chad…hang in there
Comment by ricelandmeadows May 18, 2018 @ 9:24 amCongratulations Ralph!!!
Comment by Jacklyn May 18, 2018 @ 9:31 amYou must be so excited!!
All the time to farm now!!!
I would still like to bring my cousins out. Such a late spring we are so behind in all our farm chores. I will be in contact soon.
Enjoy your retirement from Corp America!!
You are so right. I am looking forward to full time farming. Email or text and we will set up a visit
Comment by ricelandmeadows May 18, 2018 @ 9:43 pm