I think everyone in this neck of the woods would agree this has been a long, hard winter. Snow fell for the first time the end of October and winter is now in its sixth month. The recent dumping of double digit snowfall this past weekend was enough to put some people over the top.
This past weekend felt like a January day. Friday night was blustery with winds in excess of 30 mph with huge ice balls falling from the sky and a winter storm warning in place. My son, Alex, and brother Russell were working hard to get as much accomplished as they could before the storm hit. Alex finished up chores sometime around 11:30 p.m. and went in the house. A little after midnight, he decided to grab a bite to eat in the kitchen when he saw flames coming from the pole barn near the dairy barn. He immediately called 9-1-1. Within minutes, Sherburne County deputies arrived, followed by approximately 45 firefighters from six area departments (Becker/Santiago, Clear Lake, Big Lake, Elk River, Zimmerman and Foley) battling the blaze for seven hours (1am-8am).
We are very grateful for the work of all of the firefighters. Despite their efforts, both buildings were a complete loss. We were very fortunate not to lose any cows. The dairy barn is very close to the pole barn pictured and it was by the grace of God the fire did not spread to the barn.
Russell, Alex, and our entire family have been very touched by the outpouring of support by friends and neighbors who have offered their support and prayers and even brought food and goodies after learning of our fire. Neighbors rallied, offering equipment and also offering to help in any way they could.
The fire at the farm was tragic, yet we are still blessed beyond measure. Life is fleeting. We are grateful no lives were lost in the fire. The Lord gives and the Lord takes away. Farming brings to mind a verse in the Bible - Genesis 1:24 - Then God said, “Let the earth bring forth living creatures after their kind: cattle and creeping things and beasts of the earth after their kind", and it was so.
Over the last 100 years, we’ve seen a huge shift in agriculture. One of the greatest shifts has been people leaving the farm for other employment that offers better wages. In the early part of the 20th Century, over 30% of the population was involved in farming. Today, that figure is less than 2%. My son and two of my brothers have chosen to be a part of the 2% that still loves working the land and milking cows.
Working with animals, every day, 365 days a year, through summer heat and frigid winters, watching the animals closely for any early signs of any problems, caring for their every need over a lifetime, creates a bond like no other. Despite the hard work, my son and brothers wouldn’t have it any other way.
Life is fragile. Unfortunately, many others this week have suffered natural disasters, as well. It reminds us how important it is to support others when tragedy strikes and in times of need.
