Saturday, October 6, 2007

A Little Gamble

That! Yes, THAT is what I used to classify myself as. Typically, the comfortable and familiar were most agreeable to me. Not any more. And I can prove it!


I recall reading an article wherein a farmer made a rather interesting comment about gambling. It has been quite some time since reading this, so I am paraphrasing only.


“I don't have to go to Las Vegas to gamble! I am a farmer. I gamble every day.”


How true! Farmers gamble every day, week, month and even year. But then again, life is one big gamble. Everything is one big toss of the dice. No guarantees, no certainties, no black & whites. So, Embrace it!


If I can embrace uncertainty and learn to gamble a bit, then most others can!


Gambling money, to me, is against my morals. Perhaps that is too strong a word, 'morals.' I would rather use my time and money for more productive purposes. Give me a $20 bill and I am off to the book store, browsing the farming/gardening/rural life/construction sections.


Why in the hell would I stick $20 in a slot machine for a slim chance to win a little more money, when I can buy a book that will last a LOT longer than the same money would at a casino.


Anyway, my distaste for casino gambling aside, I took a HUGE gamble yesterday. In true self-reliant, true 'farmer' style, I took a chance. I bought a motorcycle. It is a big gamble. Cost me a little over $3,000 and I don't even have my license yet! I trust in myself enough to know that I WILL follow through now and take care of the paperwork; practice; get that license.


If I don't, that will be one large, very expensive paperweight.


Why did I take this gamble? Well, primarily I need new, inexpensive transportation. Secondarily, I have always wanted to ride again. No, this is not a 'midlife crisis' bike, as some call them. It isn't a Harley or BMW or anything like that. Just a small Honda Rebel. Perfect for my commute. Minimalistic. Just right.


I am considering this my first real step into taking risks. Hope this experience serves me well when I take the jump and start farming again. This really does feel good!

2 comments:

sugarcreekfarm said...

It was a few years ago, when I took the truck to the gas station for a fill-up, that I came home and told my husband, "Please go buy a motorcycle!" Makes for a much cheaper commute, at least for the summer, than driving the truck to work. And now the tuck can be exclusively for farm work.

Farmer Ken said...

Thank you for the comment! That daily work commute is the main reason I purchased it. I spend almost $120 per month on gas for the car. With the bike it will be only about $30.

When I finally get my farm, It will be used for the same thing - regular commuting. I will leave the heavy stuff to the truck.

I am so glad to hear the motorcycle is working out for you!