Building Fences : A Lesson in Change, Protection, and Growth

Once again, we are putting up and moving fences on the farm. As I'm working on this, my minds wanders and I realize there’s something profoundly symbolic about building fences on a farm. At first glance, a fence may seem like just another physical boundary – a structure designed to keep livestock safe or to mark property lines. But when you step back, there’s a deeper lesson that comes from the act of constructing and rearranging these boundaries. It’s a reminder of the importance of flexibility, the impact of change, and the value of strong, nurturing support systems in our lives.

Everything changes

One of the most striking things about fences is how they seem so permanent. They stand tall and solid, cutting through the land in an unyielding line. But in reality, fences are easily moved. Over time, the layout of a farm changes – a new crop needs room, or perhaps the livestock needs more pasture space. Just like in life, we are constantly adapting and rearranging the boundaries that define us. What once seemed like a permanent decision—whether it’s the way we live, work, or interact with others—can be changed with a bit of effort, reshaping our lives to suit new circumstances.

Building or moving a fence on a farm is a process that requires careful thought, but it also offers the freedom to change. It’s like taking a step back from life’s routine to evaluate where you are and where you need to be. Just as moving a fence opens up more space for growth, shifting our own mental or emotional boundaries can create room for new opportunities, perspectives, and connections. What once seemed like an impenetrable division can become an invitation for something better.

Fences, Family and Friends

Some fences are meant to be sturdy and permanent, providing protection where it’s needed most. When building a fence to contain livestock, it’s essential to ensure that it’s strong and secure. The same can be said for the support structures we build in our own lives—whether it’s our community, family, or close friends. These are the fences that protect us, offering a safe space where we can grow, learn, and rest. They’re the ones that keep us from wandering too far off track or getting lost in the chaos of life.

A sturdy fence is a symbol of a reliable support system—one that keeps you safe, grounded, and able to thrive. When we build these structures, whether literal or metaphorical, we create a foundation that helps us weather the storms of life. In a world that often feels uncertain, a strong community can be the barrier that allows us to focus on what’s truly important, much like a fence that keeps livestock secure from harm.

The Mindfulness of Building Fences

Perhaps one of the most unexpected benefits of building fences is the mental clarity that comes with it. As you focus on each post, hammering it into place, there’s a rhythm to the work that allows your mind to settle. With each step, you’re engaged in the task at hand, giving yourself space to clear away distractions and reflect. It’s a grounding activity—one that gives you the chance to disconnect from the complexities of life and reconnect with the simplicity of the present moment.

In the end, building fences on a farm teaches us more than just how to construct a barrier—it teaches us about adaptability, the importance of strong support systems, and the value of clearing our minds to make space for new things. Just as a well-built fence can protect and guide livestock, the fences we build in our own lives can protect us and allow us to grow in new, unexpected ways.