Quotes from David Mas Masumoto

I feel persecuted by the power of mother nature, who dwarfs my farm with her unpredictable character. Yet I cling to a spirit of survival. I observe others, my family and neighbors, as we brace for the storm with a humbling humility.

A new planting is like having another child, requiring patience and sacrifice and a resounding optimism for the future

All good farmers become connoisseurs of dirt and dust.

I get superstitious in late summer.

A type of humility marks a real farmer. Those of us who battle nature all year must ultimately accept the had we're dealt.

Opportunity is born with each new year.

Good neighbors are worth more than an extra sixteen trees.

For pacing, I need to envision my target or risk the wrong rhythm. I may start too quickly and exhaust my back and arms, which will inevitably lead to a bad attitude. Or I may proceed too slowly, which, with the sun beating down upon me, will drain my energy and spirit.

I try to rely less and less on controlling nature. Instead I am learning to live with it's chaos.