Really?

Oh Internet...you all powerful, all knowing machine! You're the place where I can be considered an "expert," on nearly everything. You're the place where I can diagnose my rash as cancer, thanks to WebMD, can post way too many pictures of my family vacation, and spew information such as this picture and, once again, cause opinions to be formed based on misinformation and heresay.

Have I mentioned I love being a blogger?? Really, I do. The Internet is a great place for me...a good fit, but I find myself lately walking away from different posts, blogs, statuses, etc. shaking my head. I admit, I am truly opinionated...borderline judgemental at times (even though I know it's wrong, and I shouldn't be), but dang it, it's hard not to be when so much information is being spewed by folks who don't know a thing about the topic in which they are spewing.

Does that make sense?

Anyway, I have been having a comment contest on my Facebook page in regards to this picture, and let me tell you, it's interesting reading all of your comments. While we do utilize a lot of Monsanto products, and have friends in the business whom we adore, I know that not all Monsanto does is great. I know that there was a time when we were able to plant things and live off the land. However, the comments rolling in about how we as producers have to go big or go home because of the more, more, more society we live in.

So here's my opinion on this photo: Regardless of whether you like Monsanto or not, quit blaming folks who are succeeding. Quit placing the blame of obesity and other health issues on big corporations such as this, and take a look at the world we live in. How many of you have full refrigerators and pantries? How many of you have been to McDonald's in the past month? How many of you will enjoy a weekend of carefree fun, possibly swimming in a pool, enjoying your time off until Monday? I don't have a first hand experience of living hungry, in poverty in India, but I will tell you, I don't want to know. However, if groups like Occupy Monsanto and HSUS continue to gain steam, you may have to pay a lot more for groceries and won't be able to blog about your lovely meal at your favorite restaurant without taking out a loan. Folks like us, my in laws, and other livestock producers will be out of business, and good luck trying to find a steak dinner to enjoy or that lovely bacon you have on Saturday mornings during brunch without folks like us.

Not only do we have to contend with groups like these, we have to fight with the weather. We are in the midst of a terrible drought. Folks, seriously, this is bad, bad stuff. Young farmers are a mess, more seasoned farmers who have lived through the droughts of '83 and '88 are concerned, but know that we'll pull through. However, not without a lot of nail biting, careful budgeting, and sleepless nights spent staring at a blank weather radar. Help us make it through this tough year by understanding and trusting that we as farmers are trying our best under the circumstances. I know a lot of you readers out there are believers in our cause, but help the rest of the country see that we're doing what we know is right, and having to fight for it every day.

I know this is just one picture, but it's a reoccurring theme. Thus, I will continue to comment on this issue until I truly become an expert on this subject!

And, by the way, while you're thinking about us, pray for rain. We really need it.