The Times Are Changing, and Not Just the Clocks

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Springing forward – a subject that always seems to bring on a lot of discussion this time of year. It always raises the question of why we have a time change, and which one is best? Did you know daylight saving time was originally started to conserve fuel and power during World War I? The original thought was to be able to make the most out of the daylight hours. But regardless of how it was started, nowadays some folks like it one way and others prefer it stay the same.

Town Center has become a focal point in the city of Brentwood's evolution from small town to commercial center.

Photo credit: Wendy Jo O’Barr

Now, let me be clear – I’m not writing this today to say which I prefer, but rather another thought this topic has brought to my mind. Do we embrace change to the best of our ability? While the action of springing forward comes with losing an hour of sleep, do we spend time talking about how much better things were the week before it changed, or do we move forward with a new routine?

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Springing Forward

I’ll be the first to admit that embracing change can often be difficult. In today’s agricultural world, there are new innovations constantly coming our way. Farm equipment and automobiles are being equipped with new technology every day. So many times in our farming operation, my son will quickly refer to a YouTube video on how to repair a piece of equipment, which isn’t quite the way I did it back in the day. The way our homes are being run with wireless capabilities continues to evolve. Not to mention the hype of artificial intelligence over the past few years. It goes without saying, but we truly are embracing change daily.

I find it interesting how much easier change seems to be for young ones. Has anyone else besides me been in awe of a little one picking up an electronic device and fearlessly moving ahead without a single stop? Can anyone testify that often in the family, the youngest member solves the television problems? Maybe embracing change is not the problem for me, but rather having the confidence to conquer today’s technology the way my granddaughter will be able to in the future.

See more: Springtime Brings Optimism and Excitement for Farmers

During my travels across the state, I’ve been so impressed with how farm families have welcomed change and moved ahead with great success. A farm that at one time produced tobacco has transitioned into a very successful greenhouse business offering fresh produce year round. Another farm that was struggling for income for a multifamily row crop operation is now thriving with the agritourism business they’ve developed. The number of dairy farms left in the state is shocking compared to just a few years ago, but the ones left are coming up with innovative ideas with storefronts offering their products directly to the public. This not only helps move their farming operation into the next century, but it also allows customers who may have never been to a farm a chance to have that experience.

Time for Change

What kind of change have you adapted to recently? Do you now place your order for pickup at your local grocery store rather than going in? Do you watch television from a streaming app instead of an antenna? Do you start your vehicle from your phone instead of from inside the vehicle? I think it’s safe to say technology and advancements have improved the quality and speed of getting things done. However, I will admit I am not the one to tell you how a convection oven is better than a conventional one, but I can attest to the fact that our little Roomba vacuum sure does make life easier.

The clock at the downtown rail station keeps time for passengers of the Music City Star in downtown Nashville

Photo credit: Jeffrey S. Otto.

I’ve been around long enough to know that with the effort of trying to move forward, there are also times where you may fall back. Getting used to new things can take time and come with its fair share of bumps along the way. Sometimes your idea for improvement may not work out the way you thought it would, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t keep trying.

See more: The Ups and Downs of Spring Cleaning Surprises

Our lives are springing forward every day on this earth, and the days are swiftly passing. Rather than being worried about the changes ahead or how much time has already passed, I think enjoying the moments we are in is what is most important. Make the most of the sunshine God has given us. Enjoy the rest of the evenings when the sun has gone down. Philippians 4:6-7 says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” I hope this article finds you well and may God bless you.

About the author: Eric Mayberry is president of the Tennessee Farm Bureau Federation. He and his wife, Lynn, work tirelessly to advocate for farm families across the state. They also remain active with their family farm in Humphreys County.

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