Keep Planting

It’s not unusual these days to often overhear and participate in conversations where people are talking about, and mostly bemoaning, the state of the world we’re living in. Maybe those conversations have always been that way. A common place for hearing the counter to this is to spend time around business, social, and ministry entrepreneurs.

Most have their eyes wide open to the reality of the difficulties we’re living with, but always with their hearts and minds searching out ways to make the world we live in better. They would agree with Luther’s sentiment, but would probably follow it up with, “And possibly, if I do plant this apple tree, maybe the world won’t go to pieces – at least some part of it.”

The humble apple tree is probably the one to plant given its potential. Maybe at one time or another you have been challenged to answer the question, “How many apples are in an apple?” Of course, the answer is, “Countless!”

The same potential one can see in one apple tree is the same kind of potential a thoughtful and visionary entrepreneur can see in the enterprise they are planting. Yes, given the state of things, there are a hundred reasons to step back and let the ground lay fallow, but that acquiescence isn’t characteristic of entrepreneurs, is it?

At the Agathe Center for Entrepreneurship we have the privilege of supporting those who don’t acquiesce, who keep planting. It’s an encouragement to be in touch with those who choose to push back against a world “going to pieces” and want to contribute to a world holding together. They are going to keep planting. So, whether it is an enterprise, or whatever vocation or pursuit you’ve been called to – we urge you – keep planting!

Ralph