By now, many of you have seen the viral clips of the US cowboys who traveled to Israel to help farmers harvest their crops. While the images became famous for their uniqueness, the reality is quite literal. Israeli farms are in danger of having their crops and produce ruined due to the lack of laborers – as many have joined the IDF or fled the country.

As I write this article, I am in Israel and came here with the same thoughts as many – “to help out any way I can.” Little did I think that I, too, would end up on a farm volunteering to offer my services. After our 50-mile car ride, we reached the farm and saw rows upon rows of vibrant green plants stretched out for miles, each laden with budding produce.

The owner was overwhelmed with appreciation as he described his circumstances, needing extra hands to help save his crop for the year. Farming is meticulous work that demands precise attention and effort. I was assigned to pull weeds out of the ground that were impacting the growth of the strawberries. The weeds had to be carefully plucked to avoid damaging the delicate strawberry plants. The work was physically demanding; It required care and persistence to work through the rows, bending down and reaching out to ensure no infectious weed was left behind.

Little did I know that this experience would not only give me a newfound appreciation for the hard work that goes into farming, but also reiterate a valuable life lesson: the principle of “You Reap What You Sow.” In farming, the effort you put into cultivating and caring for the crops directly impacts the quality and quantity of the harvest. The more time and care you invest, the better the rewards.

This principle applies not only to agriculture but also to life in general. The effort you invest in your goals and aspirations is directly proportional to the results you achieve. Farmers understand that success in agriculture requires more than just basic effort; it demands ongoing commitment. Crops must be tended to regularly, protected from pests, and nurtured through changing seasons.

Another striking aspect of working on the farm was the concept of delayed gratification. The process from planting the seeds to harvesting the ripe fruit takes time and patience. It can be months before you see the results of your labor. Similarly, in life, achieving our goals often involves overcoming obstacles and persevering through difficulties. The principle of “You Reap What You Sow” reminds us that we must stay dedicated to our endeavors and not be discouraged by setbacks.

In our fast-paced world, we often seek instant gratification and quick fixes. However, the farm reminded me that some of life’s most valuable rewards come from those willing to invest time and patience into their pursuits. Our goals and dreams may require considerable diligence and hard work before they come to fruition.

In Tehillim 126:5, we read, “Those who sow tearfully, with glad song, will reap.” As we navigate the journey of life, let us remember that the sweetest rewards often come to those who put in the bitter work to sow the seeds of effort and nurture them with unwavering commitment.

Shoutout to all of our brothers and sisters on the frontline, and birthday wishes to Eliana Baum, Gad Cohen, Natan Cohen, Tzali Dulitz, Batsheva Glick, Lauren Greene, Edyie Rosenfeld, Jenny Rosenfeld, Dr. Eric Teller and Michael Wildes

Shmuel Shayowitz (NMLS#19871) is a highly regarded Real Estate & Finance Executive, Writer, Speaker, Coach, and Advisor. He is President and Chief Lending Officer of Approved Funding, a privately held national mortgage banker and direct lender. Shmuel has over twenty years of industry experience, holding numerous licenses and accreditations, including certified mortgage underwriter, licensed real estate agent, residential review appraiser, and accredited investor, to name a few. Shmuel has successfully navigated through many changing markets and business landscapes, making his market insights and experience well-coveted within the real estate industry. He can be reached via email at [email protected].