SOLD!

We stood in the middle of the yard, under the shade of a big oak tree, watching friends, neighbors, and strangers walk through the barns, sheds, and other outbuildings. Rows of farm equipment were set up along the driveway: tractors, trailers, spreaders, haulers, and a grain truck from 1973. The sheds held tables full of tools. Everything from chainsaws, socket sets, and pliers to bolt bins and farm supplies.

Today was the “Farm retirement auction” for Henry and Sophie Taylor’s place.

Henry and Sophie farmed this land for more than 50 years. They planted that oak tree in the middle of it all. A detached garage with a shaded porch and BBQ framed the yard, as well as barns, the back of the house, and the driveway where I parked.

I had the good fortune of attending a family reunion on my wife’s side of the family at the farm in Indiana a few years ago. The corn on the cob was the best I’ve ever tasted. Just a few steps from field to plate. Now that’s local!

I asked the obvious question, “How do you feel about all this?” And in his usual ‘aw shucks’ understated way, he said, “It’s ok. I’ve had the chance to work this land for more than 50 years. It’s someone else’s turn.”

“Say, wait here. I want to get something from the house,” said Henry. I waited under the shade of the oak tree, watching a couple of farmers discuss the price on a hay baler. “Here, I want you to have this,” and he gave me a pocketknife. The outside was worn, but the blade was sharp. “I’ve kept this in my pocket for years. Now you can have it.” I was stunned, pretty much speechless. “Thank you, sir.” Weird time to get formal, I know, but these were the words that came out of my mouth. I still carry that knife with me as part of my everyday carry.

Henry was called away to answer some questions about one of the outbuildings. As I walked away from the tree, the knife shifting against the keys in my pocket, I wondered who would be lucky enough to live here.

I don’t have a photo of that tree. No camera could do it justice.