The Bamboo Farmer

Once upon a time, there was a farmer who lived in a farming community and
had farmed all of his life. As time passed, he became bored with farming traditional crops, so he began researching alternatives. He knew that success was a choice. Therefore, he began researching and speaking with experts before making his final decision.

He decided on Bamboo. His conditions and equipment could make growing bamboo profitable. He was convinced he was making the wisest choice and made the changes to become a bamboo farmer. For generations his neighbors had all grown traditional crops like corn and wheat. Upon telling his fellow farmers his idea, they mocked him. They were unwilling to accept change or progress. However, he would not back down from the belief that he could grow bamboo.

The first year nothing came up from the ground. His neighbors were ruthless. They had all harvested their crops while he had nothing to show for his efforts. He was undaunted and confident in his knowledge. The second year, nothing happened either. Again, he endured ridicule by his neighbors.

The third year, bamboo was everywhere. His crop grew a foot a day! He harvested his crop and sold it for a huge profit. Several of his neighbors began showing interest in becoming bamboo farmers as well.

The farmer and his family enjoyed a happy life, unafraid of growth, progress or change, and confident when facing challenges. Bamboo doesn’t grow until the third season because it spends the first two years growing roots. Without those roots, the tree would never reach its potential, falling over with the first strong wind. Had the farmer lost faith, he might have tilled the crop during the first year, spelling disaster for his family. Have faith and persevere! Remember Success is Your Choice!