Living to Serve

“FFA members, why are we here?” Most of us have heard this statement from opening and closing ceremonies many times. But what does it really mean? Why are we here today?

Everything in this world has a purpose. Water is the life force that keeps our planet spinning. Plants filter oxygen and feed animals. Animals help maintain balance in nature and provide nourishment for us. Everything has a purpose—including us. But why are we here?

There are many ways to answer this question, and each person’s answer may be different. But the simplest, most universal answer is that we are here to serve. Fulfillment can be found in serving others.

Some questions we should all ask ourselves: How can I help people? How can I serve my community? My world?

The FFA has helped me—and probably many of you—develop a servant leadership mindset. We don’t do things for power or recognition; we do it because this organization has given us so much. We do it to help the next generations of FFA members. We do it to advocate for agriculture. Even when life gets busy, when the days feel too short, when I’m tired or frustrated—I keep going. The service of others is what drives me. Knowing that I’ve made a positive impact in someone’s life is what keeps me moving forward.

Now, let’s think about a farmer. Why do they do what they do, day in and day out? The answer is clear: to feed people. Farmers work tirelessly to ensure that no child goes to bed hungry, that grocery store shelves are stocked, and that we can sit down with our families and share a meal. At its core, that’s why they do what they do. Sure, there are other rewards—like caring for the land and nurturing livestock. But ultimately, farmers serve by feeding the world.

But this idea of service doesn’t just apply to agriculture—it applies to all of us. Every one of us should be able to say, "I want to help people ______." What goes in that blank is up to you.

I know plenty of people whose dreams center around wealth—fancy houses, sports cars, and success. And there’s nothing wrong with striving for success. But at the end of the day, those are just things. Success isn’t measured by material possessions. It’s through service that we build relationships, make lasting impacts, and leave a legacy that truly matters.

There’s an old country song by Randy Travis that says, "It’s not what you take when you leave this world behind you, it’s what you leave behind you when you go." Those words are more than just lyrics—they’re a reminder that through acts of service, we leave a lasting impact. We touch lives, make a difference, and inspire future generations.

So, why are we here today? We’re here to serve. To learn how to serve better. To equip ourselves with the knowledge and tools we need to make a difference in the world. Whether through agriculture or any other means, our purpose is to leave this world a little better than we found it.

“I want to help people ______.”