Family Farm Schools, Part 2

IN OUR previous post, we mentioned that, despite the wonderful objectives and methodology of the Family Farm Schools, the concept has not been able to attract the really big bucks in terms of financial support. This must not denigrate, however, the kindness of so many people and corporations who have, to this day, given much to sustain the concept. Without their help, the Family Farm Schools would never have taken off at all. One of the more salutary side-benefits of the farm schools is the inevitable involvement of the parents and families of the students in the whole effort. As the astounded parents observe their budding farmer sons become accomplished in their trade, they naturally begin to foster an active curiosity about the school. Many of the parents have responded to activities –- both spiritual and otherwise -– that the farm school managers manage to drum up. The concept of family is honed in the minds of the students and their relatives. They are taught to find dignity in ordinary work, and best of all, guided on how to do their work to the best of their respective abilities. Finally, in keeping with the schools’ tradition, the students and their families find out how work well done and offered up to God becomes the best work of all. This kind of a positive and spiritual mindset is so radically different from those who believe that they are owed work, and when they get some, do such work in a lackadaisical manner. There is no pride in self or in the work being done. This can probably be attributed to the lack of a strong spiritual formation in the worker. Man, after all, does not live on bread alone.