Editor's Note: Cool to Be Kind

Cool to Be Kind

Unexpected kindness is the most powerful, least costly and most underrated agent of human change.

Bob Kerrey, former governor of Nebraska

Raising children is both a responsibility and an opportunity. Between activities, school, birthday parties and everyday grocery trips, there’s no shortage of chances for growth and learning. And not just in academics, but in how to be a person who offers help and encourages others.

When I talk to adults about my children, whether it’s teachers or family or friends, I hope that — more than anything — they’re recognized as being kind to others. Of course, academics and gaining new skills are important too, but having a kind heart will always be in style.

Building relationships with individuals in the agriculture community, I see how being kind is a constant theme in my interactions. You never know when you’ll need a reference, resource or helping hand, and farmers seem to understand that better than most.

We recently featured Farm Rescue, a non-profit organization that provides assistance to farmers experiencing a major illness, injury or natural disaster. The kindness of the volunteers who give their time and talents to ensure farmers have a chance to continue their livelihoods is inspiring.

Farmers and those in the ag industry also work daily to show kindness to the soil, water and air. Respecting and protecting these natural resources ensure that future generations will receive the benefits of soil full of essential nutrients, water free from unnecessary chemicals and clean air to breathe.

In this issue, learn how restored oxbows improve water quality, take a trip to a rural community where kindness is displayed daily, meet a family who has redefined what a convenience store can be and go behind the scenes with Iowa’s beloved unofficial barbecue promoter.

As my children grow older, I will continue to instill in them the importance of being kind and treating others the way they want to be treated. I hope they realize this virtue will continue to serve them well. Children are often asked what they want to be when they grow up. I offer them this advice: In a world where you can be anything, be kind.

Enjoy the issue, Lydia Zerby

WIN TWO GLASS FOOD-STORAGE SETS , one 30-piece set for you and one to give to a friend . Enter to win at iowafoodandfamily.com/contest/foodstorage