“Forty Chances” puts things in focus

Diamond V proudly sponsors the Borlaug Dialogue on global agriculture, which takes place each October in Des Moines, Iowa. This international symposium occurs in conjunction with the World Food Prize created by Dr. Norman Borlaug (1914- 2009), an Iowa native and recipient of the 1970 Nobel Peace Prize along with many other awards for his scientific research and extension efforts to produce food for people around the world.

At a recent World Food Prize meeting, I learned about a book by Howard Buffett, a son of the legendary billionaire investor Warren Buffett. In 2006, the elder Buffett announced he was leaving the bulk of his fortune to philanthropy. He asked his son Howard, “If you had the resources to accomplish something great in the world, what would you do?”.

Howard told his dad he would focus on helping the most vulnerable people on earth – nearly a billion who lack basic food security. He gave himself a deadline: 40 years to put more than $3 billion to work on this challenge. And, with his own son – Howard Warren Buffett – he wrote the book Forty Chances: Finding Hope in a Hungry World.

A Midwest farmer himself, Howard figures most farmers can hope to have about 40 growing seasons, giving them just 40 chances to improve on every harvest. Likewise, each of us, Howard believes, has about 40 chances to accomplish our goals in life. That’s 40 productive years to do the best job we can, whatever our passions or goals may be.

Of course, Howard Buffett is an extraordinary case. Norman Borlaug is another. Today, many others are using science and technology to create sustainable agricultural development and food production around the world. The World Food Prize recognizes leaders in agriculture without regard to their race, religion, nationality, or political beliefs.

The “take home message” is that each of us can use our 40 chances to follow our passions and contribute in meaningful ways.

At Diamond V, we are passionate about making a positive difference year after year. Our record now extends to more than 70 years  three full human generations. Our leading edge science and fermentation technology helps to advance global food production, safety, and sustainability. Our all-natural products and technical services enhance animal health and performance, supporting profitable solutions for our customers around the world. We want to make the most of our own “40 chances.”