None of our readers know Hilton. Hilton has been a regular at our farm store, and he would stop by every Saturday after work. He really liked fresh eggs and plant ripened tomatoes. I don’t have a picture of Hilton, so let me describe him. We met Hilton and his wife late one Saturday afternoon when they stopped by the house after seeing the fresh eggs sign out by the paved road. Our farm store was technically closed at that time, but they were interested, so we showed them around and answered their questions. Right off the bat, I knew he was not from around here. Hilton is black, has dreadlocks way down past his shoulders and spoke with an English accent. I quickly learned he was originally from the British Virgin Islands in the Caribbean, so now the accent and the dreads made sense. He talked of his love for farm fresh produce because it reminded him of home. After that first visit, Hilton became a regular customer.
That’s one thing I really love about the farm store and being open to the public. We meet so many nice people from all walks of life. Many have different viewpoints and worldviews, and they remind me of the rich diversity our nation enjoys. As diverse as our growing customer base may be, they all have one thing in common: they love good food. Hilton and I probably would have never met if it were not for the farm store. It amazes me how good food brings so many different people together.
Well, as the blog title states, I will miss seeing Hilton. You see, Hilton worked at the now abandoned VC Summer nuclear construction site. He was one of the 5,000 workers who lost their jobs two weeks ago. I’m sure he went to work that Monday morning along with everyone else, with no idea what would happen by noon. I hope to see you again one day Hilton. May God bless.
Your farmer,
Jason Pope