
19/05/2025
To the old farmer driving his tractor down the road today, I saw you wave at me to pass when it was clear. I noticed you tipping your hat and wiping the sweat from your forehead, and I saw it running down the back of your shirt. Don't worry about me being behind you; I'll just follow with my hazard lights on until you turn off.
When you turned your head back the second time and saw my hazard lights and waved your thanks, it made me smile. I'll keep you safe because I appreciate the hard work you put in to make a living. I know you're up before me, and I know you're still working when I'm resting at home. I'm fine driving a little slower, taking in all the fields you tend to. They're as perfect as you are.
Thank you for slowing me down so I can reflect on the importance of what you do and what you bring to the table. ❤️ You just keep driving, Sir, and I'll just keep following.
Dusty old farmer out working your fields,
Hanging down over your tractor wheels,
The sun beating down turns the red paint to orange,
And rusty old patches of steel.
There's no farmer songs on that car radio,
Just cowboys, truck drivers, and pain.
Well, this is my way to say thanks for the meal,
And I hope there's no shortage of rain.
Straw hats and old dirty hankies,
Mopping a face like a shoe.
Thanks for the meal, here's a song that is real,
From a kid from the city to you.
The combines gang up, take most of the bread,
Things just ain't like they used to be.
Though your kids are out after the American dream,
And they're working in big factories.
Now, if I come on by, when you're out in the sun,
Can I wave at you just like a friend?
These days when everyone's taking so much,
There's somebody giving back in.
Straw hats and old dirty hankies,
Mopping a face like a shoe.
Thanks for the meal, here's a song that is real,
From a kid from the city to you.
– Murray McLaughlin, Farmer’s Song
Photographer: Danny Jones