Even though I grew up in Oklahoma, I was a little too prissy to be a 4 H girl. My best friend, Dawn, however, was a 4H superstar. She swears that being in 4H improved her confidence, knowledge, and poise, making her the public speaker she is today. Dawn has taught me many valuable things in life, including what 4H means, and the principles associated therewith. After enduring one of the most challenging years of our generation, it seems that applying the 4H’s to 2021 is apropos. What are the 4H’s anyway, you may ask?
The first “H” in 4-H stands for Head. One of the key concepts in 4-H is education. One of the organization’s goals is to have its young members develop life skills that help them succeed. Some of these life skills include leadership, responsibility, dedication, communication and self-confidence.
The second “H” in 4-H stands for Heart. In 4-H, youth are taught to be reliable and loyal in their heart and understand what is means to take responsibility for their projects and to complete them. 4-H also strives to foster kids’ positive relationships with adults and peers through leaders and teens. Caring for others and their projects is also a trait that relates to the “H” for Heart.
The next “H” in 4-H stands for Hands. 4-H’ers are busy with their hands all year long, learning new things and caring for their projects with hands-on experiences. An important principle is that 4-H’ers use their hands by giving back to the community. Youth are taught the importance of serving their community, country and world.
The last “H” in 4-H stands for Health. Knowing how to cook and grow food, and appreciating
art allows 4-H’ers to gain an understanding of how the world works and how to live healthy.
Projects involving photography, canning, arts and crafts, sewing, collections, and cooking help youth realize what it takes to have a healthy lifestyle and how to spend their leisure time.
4-H also strives to make sure youth are physically and emotionally safe.
COVID-19 has made us aware about how very much we are connected, especially when it comes to health. We are so very grateful for our first responders, doctors, nurses, truck drivers, grocery store workers, and all those who have served their communities tirelessly throughout this trying year.
We challenge you to take the following 4H pledge-toward your family, your community, and your country, and applies these principles to your life in 2021:
I pledge my Head to clearer thinking
My Heart to greater loyalty
My Hands to larger service
My Health to better living
We here at Adams & Associates, PLC wish all of you a very happy, healthy, and safe 2021!
Ashley
