For as long as I can remember, winter has always been my favorite season. A time of joy, laughter, and fellowship fill the air as we reconnect with loved ones during the holiday season. Everyone looks forward to the end of the year and celebrating memories made. The anticipation was worth the wait and families cherish the time spent together. As time passes, the joy of the holiday season falls and we are left with the gloomy section of winter: the ice and the cold. This part of the season is why it’s my favorite. 

Even though the weather may be gloomy, this is when some of the most important events happen. When the ice and snow hit our fields, an essential process is taking place. As this precipitation melts, it provides much needed water to refuel and prepare the fields for the upcoming growing season. Without this gloomy weather, our fields will slow down the growing process. 

There will be times in our lives when we are stuck in the gloomy part of the season. We may get caught up in the nastiness of a hard class, trouble between friends, or an unforeseen circumstance. This is our growing season. By weathering the ice and snow of our lives, we come out stronger. These challenges make us who we are and help us grow. If we understand how essential this storm is, we will better appreciate the growth on the other side. Missouri FFA, don’t forget that the storm is essential.