I am so happy to be involved in raising pigs. Pork is an economical and nutritious protein source. Food is one of the basic necessities needed to sustain life. Oxygen, water and shelter also make the list of essentials. Being involved in growing and raising food gives those of us who do such a great deal of satisfaction.

I learned this week that in the USA we spend an average of 10 percent of our income on food. Our country experiences the lowest percentage of our income spent on food, when compared to the rest of the world. People in other countries spend as much as 80 percent of their income on food. I also learned that as people’s income in developing nations increases, their consumption of meat increases. I am exuberant to be involved in producing food!

I have been thinking about the Christmas story. There are two things that really impress me. God sent his Son and our Savior into the world via a stable. Secondly, God chose to make the announcement of His Son’s birth to the world through a group of shepherds.