Watching the skies stay clear while the bank balances dwindle can put the fortitude of even the most resilient characters to the test, and every story of hardship can add to the despair. 

People who live on the land are hardy and courageous. You have to be when your life is dependent on nature’s whim. Holidays fit in around the seasons and there is no such thing as nine to five. It’s the life you lead, that’s just how it goes. 

But even the hardiest person needs support. You can’t do it on your own.

 Too often there can be a culture of silence, ingrained through the generations. Physical and mental exhaustion take their toll. 

Hold fast to the people around you. Support each other through the tough times. Know even those not on the land are thinking of you, even if they don’t always fully comprehend the severity of the situation.  

There is always support available and many services ready to lighten the load. There is no shame in accepting help. These services include the Salvation Army’s rural chaplains, who are there to offer practical and emotional support. It’s important to take the help that you need, because it’s not just you that will benefit but your whole family. 

Anything that can help ease the burden is worth considering.

Anyone who has lived through drought knows it will end. It doesn’t make the waiting any easier but it’s worth holding on to the tiniest spark of hope. 

Hope will get us through until the paddocks are green once more. Having adequate support helps keep that hope alive.  

Nobody needs to feel alone. May the rain fall soon. 

Letters to the Editor

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The Armidale Express

115 Faulkner Street

Armidale

NSW, 2350

Email:

lydia.roberts@fairfaxmedia.com.au