Succession Discussion

Has anyone ever said to you, "that's easy for you to say"? Like me, you probably answered yes. I've had experience on both ends of that statement, and it definitely comes easier to offer advice than to utilize it. My last birthday put me into that special group defined as "middle aged". This age group has also found themselves referred to as the "sandwich generation"; old enough to have parents that now need our assistance, and young enough to still have children needing our assistance; be it financial or emotional. One of the most difficult things to do is talk with aging parents about their future and the future of a family farm, or business. Thankfully, there are people out there who can help with such talks and transitions. At the Farmer's For the Future Conference just such a specialist was on hand addressing young farmers about the inevitable succession discussion many of them will one day be facing. A code of conduct was offered up for family members faced with discussing the future of the family farm. And though the points of the conduct code seem obvious, many of us still need to be reminded of them when we are dealing with family members; treat each other with respect, honesty, and civility.