Mikaela Rojas

Earlier this month, I had the opportunity to travel to northern Missouri with the National FFA president, Amara Jackson, and our Missouri FFA president, Andi Belt. I had a mission on my mind: to complete engaging chapter visits with Amara and Andi and soak up as much information as I possibly could.  Halfway through my trip to meet up with them, I was met with a big, orange “ROAD CLOSED” sign. Immediately, I panicked because I knew if I rerouted and followed the roads my GPS wanted me to, I would never meet Amara and Andi on time. In this moment of worry, I looked over my shoulder and noticed an unmarked gravel road. With no other choice and a countdown ticking away in my mind, I turned down the road.

As I drove, I felt a sense of freedom wash over me. The morning sun began to rise, casting a warm glow across the fields ready for harvest. I was captivated by the sight of farmers diligently harvesting their crops in the distance, embodying the spirit of hard work and dedication that defines the agricultural community. This unexpected detour allowed me to witness the beauty of agriculture I take for granted in the busyness of day-to-day life. I arrived just in time to meet Amara and Andi with a brand new perspective in tow. This experience taught me that sometimes the best moments come from embracing the unexpected and turning challenges into opportunities for growth.

FFA members, as you navigate all of the “gravel roads” in your life and your dreams of future success, remember this – “Do not let the pursuit of tomorrow diminish the joy of today.” Celebrate small victories, build friendships and take time to enjoy the process of learning. Let your journey be rich with both purpose and happiness; the path to success is just as meaningful as the destination itself!

I have never been one for change. When I was little, a substitute teacher at school would throw off my day and a change in lunch plans frustrated me to no end. As a terribly indecisive person, change can be a tough pill to swallow once I have my heart set on something. This month I graduated high school, which is easily one of the biggest changes I have ever undergone. 

At the beginning of the year, I was terrified of leaving the people I loved, the places I was familiar with, and the routine I had developed. It reminded me of my grandfather and his journey in agriculture. At 19, Grandpa left his home in Costa Rica knowing no English to attend Truman State University in Kirksville, Missouri. There, he learned English while completing his degree in animal science. Through his stories, grandpa taught me there is power in embracing change. 

Graduation has come and gone, and I am no longer afraid of the constant change that continues to occur throughout my life. If you take a step out of your comfort zone, you may realize that the process of changing is not scary at all. It is a beautiful time of growth and development, whether that be learning from mistakes or adjusting to an unfamiliar situation. I will have strength in knowing that the lessons I learned in leaving will live on in my heart. 

FFA members, you are only limiting yourself by being afraid of change. You can manage the last-minute script revision before a chapter banquet. You can present that speech your advisor has been pushing you to try. You most definitely can use change to practice acceptance and adaptability and become the best version of yourself possible.