My final entry on Food Priorities

[Guest guest]

I would gladly barter work for a share of our farm produce.

Matt

Regarding Matt's Statement above, I had an out of work neighbor come to me, wanting to borrow $20 to "Buy some groceries." Since it was a Saturday morning and I had a lot of work to do, I asked him if he had eaten breakfast. He said no so I invited him and his live-in girl friend in to my home, fixed them a nice omlet and toast and then asked if he would be willing to do a little work for some Groceries. When he agreed, I put a chicken, a beef roast and a couple packs of my own home grown burger in a cooler, along with a dozen eggs and 5 pounds of potatoes. We went to the farm and spent the morning until about 1:00 PM working on fence, burning brush, cutting wood and repairing a cow shed. When we got done, I gave them the food and sent them on their way. He complained that he needed some gas money. I pointed out that he had asked about groceries and the the value of what I had given him was farm more than $20 and he had the pride of having earned it

rather than begging. He groused a little and eventually became a regular employee, but never asked for a hand out again. BUT over time began to expect to have a regular employment and I did not always have it.

Now I mostly hire locals for a few hours for a specific job and let them go on their way. I have found that most unemployed people in my area would rather grumble and ask for a hand out than work for food.

'Nuff said. Happy New Year to all

Bill Dunlap