Thought for the Week

All roads lead to Llanelwedd as the biggest agricultural show in Europe annually attracting over two hundred thousand visitors takes place.  The ‘Royal Welsh’ brings together the best in the world of agriculture and has become a prestigious in its own right by attracting exhibitors from throughout Wales and beyond.  The quality of competition in all fields is always of the highest order and with sheep dog trials, sheep shearing competitions, falconry, and the added attractions of arts shows and crafts there is something for everyone.    This year is the 100^th show with the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall present for the opening ceremony affirming its Royal status and the immense contribution the show makes to the agricultural economy of Wales.

The appeal of the Royal Welsh goes much further than just enjoying the exhibits and seeing top class entries.   Just to walk around the field and meet up with friends we may not have seen since last year is in itself a lovely experience. Add to that some good weather and the lovely setting of the Powys countryside and the mix is just right.  Such meetings can, of course, lead to much more.  Many a romance has blossomed as common interests in farming and agriculture have been shared.  So much so that some have commented that marriages are not only made in heaven but at Llanelwedd as well!

Friendship, is of course one of the most precious gifts of life.  A true friend  stays the course of being there for us in good times as well as bad.  True friendship is also something which is essentially practical because we have to work at it.  It means that we do not call it a day when we have differences or when something was needed to be said which only a true friend would say.  Jesus’ friendship often extended to those who were rejected by their peers.  The woman at the well of Samaria, who came to draw water on her own because of her dubious character. Mathew and Zacchaeus the hated tax collectors were so changed because while they were considered to be cheats and quislings Jesus took time to befriend them.  An adulterous woman surrounded by the so called ‘religious’ ready to stone her to death was picked up by his gentle forgiving hand.  That’s what true friendship does – it breaks barriers and never gives up.  Hopefully the Royal Welsh will be another resounding success this year and that everyone will return from Llanelwedd refreshed and renewed having met old friends and made many more!