Can Chickens Change your Life?

My short answer is yes, but allow me to explain.

Many years ago, when my husband and I owned a farm store in Lynden, Washington, our business partner and I had to give a presentation to possible investors. My business partner started out by introducing himself as a life-long, hard-working farmer. He spoke admirably about his days spent with chores as a central theme, and how he has always focused on work ethic and responsibility. The room was impressed.

It soon became my turn to speak. I went into the meeting not really knowing what I was going to say, and I was even more unsure upon the realization that I would have to follow my business partner’s squeaky-clean intro. At the final moment, I did what I do best. I was brutally honest. To a fault, some may say.

“I have been lazy all my life. In high school, I got bad grades and wasn’t motivated. I have really always liked to sleep in.” The room giggled. I was encouraged and went on.

“Then I got chickens and everything changed. Chickens make me get up early. They make me have to shovel poop. They force me to have a schedule and to be a more responsible person. And now, I want to work even harder by making our farm store the best it can be.” It was wide smiles and softened eyes all around. We didn’t get the investment money (probably a good thing in the long run), and we eventually had to let go of the store. But hey, at least I know I’m relatable. And I really did mean everything I said. Chickens made me grow up, and I will forever be grateful to them. For more, click here:

Non-chicken-people often look puzzled when I tell them how chickens have changed my life for the better. But chicken-people always give me a knowing look, a nod, and sometimes even a teary-eyed affirmation. They know the surprising power chickens have to release burdens old and new. How have chickens made your life better? I’d love you to let me know in the comments.