Farmer to Farmer

My visit to Pakistan began at a get-together of classmates in the Class of 2010, Carlson School of Management Executive MBA program where I met classmate Rand Olson. As we chatted, it became apparent that we had some common interests and Rand suggested we get together for lunch sometime. During a casual lunch—on a very hectic day—Rand asked if I'd like to accompany him, paying my own way, to Afghanistan and Pakistan. I was very excited (though rational thinking was saying, "are you crazy? It's dangerous over there!"). My wife and I discussed and prayed about the idea in great depth—coming to the conclusion that it was something that I had to do.

Randall Olson, President of Shelter For Life and Leroy Peterson enjoying lunch in Northern Afghanistan

My wife, I, and our kids have a history of interest in people from other countries and cultures, have visited a number of other countries, and have hosted a number of exchange students. That interest was driven by a desire to make a connection with them that would contribute to better mutual understanding of each other; thereby, perhaps, enabling us to share that understanding with others. So, the decision was made to accept Rand's offer on the condition that I would not be along as a tourist, but would contribute my skills and insights developed over my lifelong farming experience to enhance the agricultural, humanitarian aid project that SFL was considering.

The experiences there were quite rich. I had the opportunity to travel into the rural areas and see first-hand some of the struggles that the farmers and rural towns faced—the real Pakistan. I related to them, because I am a farmer at heart and, also like them, want the best for my family. Every farm visit found us being offered rural hospitality and friendship, water, milk tea, soda, and food. And, an opportunity to visit with both government officials and with the farmers themselves.

A highpoint for me was to communicate with one of the farmers—without common language—that our fields have some of the same weeds, half a world apart! Another highlight was riding for a couple days with an area water resources official. I learned much about rural culture, resource availability, and challenges faced by the farmers. He said, upon leaving, "If SFL does this project, I will like working with you." Indeed, I would look forward to that. A third connection was with a man who has a deep desire to fight against poverty and illiteracy. He brought me to a storeroom to show me the books that his organization has for distribution to area children to help them learn.

As I expected, the trip was about the people and whether there is anything that I can share that could help them in real, basic ways. It is easy for an outsider, such as me, to come to them without understanding where they are coming from and say, "Oh, you could do this and that to make things so much better for yourselves." The trip experience helped me realize again that understanding comes by listening, touching, eating from the common table, and sharing with our human brothers and sisters. The Biblical phrase, "To whom much is given, much is required," echoes in my mind.

A recurring thought that I had during the trip and since coming home is: "All it took was a ticket!" I would encourage anyone to take a step into sharing and connecting with other people, whether here at home or across the world. Shelter for Life may be a good place to start. Personally going or personally sending, the rewards are beyond this world.

- Leroy

To learn more about our efforts in Pakistan please visit our Pakistan and Food Security pages.