The Last Word Editor’s Notes by Ann Clinton aclinton@iasoybeans.com
Somewhere in the middle
I
recently moved my oldest daughter into a dorm room at Iowa State University. Outfitted with a laptop, mini-fridge and hand-me-down couch, she set up her little space in the world. The whole experience was surreal for me, especially since she’s still 3 years old in my mind. There is no describing the emotion that overwhelmed me when we said our goodbyes that day. However, my heart was filled with so much pride and happiness for her that it was hard to feel sad. That child of mine has been ready to fly since the day she was born. As an infant, she cried until she could walk. As a teenager, she was off to find adventure as soon as she could drive. This was a natural transition for her. However, I have found myself in a strange season of life. The space between hanging on and letting go.
I am a big believer in the beauty of her wings, but I can only pray I’ve given her strong enough roots. I have come to realize that being her mom is less emotional than it is humbling. There is so much I want to protect her from, and yet, so many experiences I hope she gets to enjoy. There’s not a parent reading this that does not understand what I mean. It’s a universal heartache. When you love someone with every bit of your being, what more can you do to prepare them for the world? Nothing. You just keep doing what you’re doing. As we were putting together content for this issue of the Iowa Soybean Review, it occurred to me that agriculture is in a state of flux, as well. The future seems a little scary and the challenges a bit daunting. Problems such as gall
midge and the threat of African swine fever aren’t the issues we want to be reporting to you. Sometimes, I wish I could change the headlines. I know I’m not a farmer and trying to relate to the stress of being one isn’t really possible. However, I do know one thing for sure … you’re a farmer because you love agriculture. Your wings are your innate hope for the future, and your roots are truly in the soil. I believe you are ready for whatever comes next because you have given your heart to the unknown your entire life. As you roll down the rows in your combine this month, know my thoughts and good wishes are with you. Please know I love to hear from you when you get a chance to send an email my way. Until next time, keep doing what you do.
OCTOBER 2019 | IASOYBEANS.COM | 27
