Thought provoking week

Once again, I am sorry for a late submission. But here goes in any case. I have to say that last week's readings, guests and field trips had my head spinning. I enjoyed the conversation and discussion with Goshen's Mayor Allan Kaufmann and Elkhart County Commissioner, Mike Yoder. I thought it was interesting that they have so many similar views, yet are from different political backgrounds. That is one thing that gives me hope.

I was glad to hear both gentlemen speak about making decisions for the future and not for the bowing to some of the public's demand for instant gratification in terms of answers or decisions for the now. It gets back to one of my previous questions, "is it all about greed?" I believe that Americans, as a whole, have gotten too used to getting everything instantly, being satisfied immediately, that we are too spoiled to stop. To think. To act in ways that are best for the future and for more than just ourselves. I am impressed with Goshen's progress as a green community and as somewhat of a model for what can and should be done (i.e., alternative energy, bikeable/walkable, local food, etc.). I am not so impressed with Elkhart county's zoning laws, but hope that clear visions will prevail based on what has happened in other places similar in size and scope in other parts of the States or world! I think that the Elkhart River should be the pride and joy of the community and would be the perfect focal point for cleanup and care. Otherwise, how do people survive without clean, safe water? Is that too simple a question?

As far as the field trips on Wednesday, obviously, the most disturbing was Culvers. I couldn't sleep the other night just thinking of those newborn ducklings "living" their first few days (not hours or minutes) stacked a dozen or more trays high with no food, water, or cleanliness around them. The farm that gave me the most hope was Clay Bottom Farm. What an operation! What a talented young owner and farmer! Kudos to Ben for all he's doing and how much he cares. Actually, at all three places we met people who really seemed to care. They all were quite passionate about their work and proud of their accomplishments. And that is always nice to witness. Mr. Gunthorp exhibited that passion the most vocally. I am glad I got to see his operation, although it felt very cramped to me. If the inspector hadn't have been there, I would be dubious about the safety and health standards inside the "factory".  On the other hand, I thought the pigs actually seemed healthy and happy.

The awareness that I have gained about food and where it all comes from since starting this program is most welcomed and eye-opening. I find myself eating less meat, definitely buying less, and making different choices all the time. So that should give hope to everyone who might think that we only have to educate youngsters about this issue. In fact, I almost think that if we educated more adults about where their food comes from, we would see major results. We could start just by using films such as "What's on Your Plate?", in which those two young girls so eloquently present the food issues in their neighborhood. Yes, we can and yes, there is hope all around us.