(Paragraph 1)
"I believe in the ___ __ ___, with a faith born not of words but of deeds—achievements won by the present and past generations of agriculturists; in the promise of better days through better ways, even as the better things we now enjoy have come to us from the struggles of former years."
Future of Agriculture
"I believe that to live and work on a ___ ___, or to be engaged in other agricultural pursuits, is pleasant as well as challenging; for I know the joys and discomforts of agricultural life and hold an inborn fondness for those associations which, even in hours of discouragement, I cannot deny."
Good Farm
"I believe in ____ ___ ____ and respect from others. I believe in my own ability to work efficiently and think clearly, with such knowledge and skill as I can secure, and in the ability of progressive agriculturists to serve our own and the public interest in producing and marketing the product of our toil."
Leadership from ourselves
"I believe in less dependence on begging and more power in bargaining; in the ___ ___ and enough honest wealth to help make it so—for others as well as myself; in less need for charity and more of it when needed; in being happy myself and playing square with those whose happiness depends upon me."
Life abundant
"I believe that American agriculture can and will hold true to the best traditions of our national life and that I can exert an influence in my ____ __ ____ which will stand solid for my part in that inspiring task."
Home and Community
"I believe in the future of agriculture, with a faith born not of words but of deeds—achievements won by the present and past ___ ___ ___; in the promise of better days through better ways, even as the better things we now enjoy have come to us from the struggles of former years."
Generations of agriculturists
"I believe that to live and work on a good farm, or to be engaged in other agricultural pursuits, is pleasant as well as challenging; for I know the ____ __ ____ of agricultural life and hold an inborn fondness for those associations which, even in hours of discouragement, I cannot deny."
Joys and Discomforts
"I believe in leadership from ourselves and respect from others. I believe in my own ___ ___ ___ efficiently and think clearly, with such knowledge and skill as I can secure, and in the ability of progressive agriculturists to serve our own and the public interest in producing and marketing the product of our toil."
ability to work
"I believe in less dependence on begging and more power in bargaining; in the life abundant and enough honest wealth to help make it so—for others as well as myself; __ __ __ __ __ and more of it when needed; in being happy myself and playing square with those whose happiness depends upon me."
In less need for charity
"I believe that American agriculture can and will hold true to the best traditions of our national life and that I can ___ ___ ___ in my home and community which will stand solid for my part in that inspiring task."
Exert an influence
What is Paragraph 1 of the Creed about?
Faith in agriculture’s future
What is Paragraph 2 of the Creed about?
Pride in agricultural work
What is Paragraph 3 of the Creed about?
Self-confidence and leadership
What is Paragraph 4 of the Creed about?
Self-reliance and fairness
What is Paragraph 5 of the Creed about?
Commitment to community and tradition
What does the Creed mean by "faith born not of words but of deeds"?
It emphasizes that belief in agriculture must be proven through actions (hard work, innovation) rather than just talking about it.
What contrasts does this paragraph highlight about farming?
It balances joys (e.g., independence, connection to land) with discomforts (e.g., long hours, unpredictable weather, physical labor).
What does "leadership from ourselves" mean?
It calls for personal responsibility—FFA members should take initiative in their work, communities, and the agriculture industry.
What does "less dependence on begging and more power in bargaining" suggest?
Farmers should advocate for fair prices (e.g., through cooperatives) rather than relying on handouts, promoting economic independence.
What "best traditions of our national life" might this refer to?
Values like hard work, innovation, stewardship of the land, and community cooperation—hallmarks of American farming.
How does this paragraph connect past and present generations of farmers?
It acknowledges that today’s successes (e.g., technology, sustainable practices) are built on the struggles and innovations of earlier farmers.
Why might someone feel "discouragement" in agriculture?
Challenges like crop failure, low prices, or isolation could test a farmer’s resolve, but the Creed suggests a deep-rooted passion keeps them committed.
What is the "public interest" in agriculture?
Farmers don’t just grow crops—they feed communities, support economies, and steward natural resources, benefiting everyone.
What is the "life abundant"?
A life of sufficiency, dignity, and prosperity—not just for farmers but for their families and communities.
How can an FFA member "exert an influence" in their community?
By mentoring others, promoting sustainable practices, volunteering, or advocating for agriculture in local government.