How I Found My Calling Through Duck Farming
By Damilola Akinyemi
You know, life has a funny way of pushing us towards our true calling, sometimes when we least expect it. I still remember that day vividly—the sun was blazing, and I was sweating buckets under the Nigerian heat. I was stuck in a job that didn’t ignite any passion in me. I was just going through the motions, living for the weekends, and dreaming of something more. Little did I know, my journey would take an unexpected twist that led me to discover a love for duck farming.
I grew up in a small village in Nigeria, surrounded by the sounds of nature and the hustle of my parents working hard to make ends meet. They instilled in me the value of hard work and resilience. But let’s be real; I wasn’t dreaming of being a farmer. I wanted to wear a suit, carry a briefcase, and live the ‘good life’ in Lagos. Fast forward a few years, and I found myself in a cramped office, staring at spreadsheets and feeling utterly lost.
The Turning Point
One fateful afternoon, I visited my uncle in the village. He had a small duck farm, and I was just there to chill and eat some fresh akara. As I watched him wrangle the ducks, I noticed something unusual. He was happy. Like, genuinely happy. I asked him how he managed to find joy in such a simple life. He shrugged and said, “My guy, these ducks are my friends. They give me peace.”
That statement hit me hard. It was profound in its simplicity. I began to wonder, what if I could find something that made me feel that content? So, I started to help my uncle with the ducks, not really thinking much of it. I remember the first time I held a duckling; it was like holding a bundle of joy. The way they waddled around, quacking their little hearts out, made me laugh.
The Learning Curve
Let me tell you, duck farming is no joke. I thought it would be easy-peasy, but I quickly learned that there was a lot to consider—feeding, housing, and health care. I dove into research, reading anything I could find about ducks. I even joined online forums where I connected with other duck farmers, exchanging tips and tricks. It felt like I had stumbled into a community where I belonged.
I remember the first time I had to clean the duck pen. My hands were covered in muck, and I was about to throw in the towel when I heard my uncle chuckling behind me. “You’re not a real farmer until you’ve faced the ‘muck’,” he said, winking. That little moment made me realize that every challenge was a step toward growth. I learned to embrace the messiness of life—literally and figuratively.
Building My Own Farm
After spending some time with my uncle, I decided to take the plunge. I saved every kobo I could and bought my first set of ducks—about 20 of them. I was a mix of excitement and fear. Would I be able to handle this? Would it be worth it? With the support of my family and friends, I transformed a small portion of my backyard into a duck haven.
As I spent more time with my ducks, I felt a sense of purpose blooming inside me. It wasn’t just about the farming; it was about nurturing life, being responsible for these creatures, and, most importantly, finding joy in the process. I remember one evening, as the sun was setting, I sat there watching my ducks swim in a little pool I had built for them. It struck me that this was where I was meant to be.
The Impact on My Life
Duck farming changed my perspective on life. I started waking up early, not because I had to, but because I wanted to. The sounds of quacking became my morning anthem, and the sight of my ducks thriving filled me with pride. I also began to understand the importance of sustainability and local farming. I started to sell my ducks and their eggs in the local market, and the community response was heartwarming.
People would come to me for advice, and I found myself sharing knowledge and tips. It felt good to give back and help others. I realized that in helping others find their way, I was also solidifying my own journey. I became more involved in local agricultural initiatives, advocating for sustainable farming practices.
Embracing the Challenges
Of course, not every day was filled with sunshine and quacking. I faced challenges—diseases, market fluctuations, and even the occasional rogue fox trying to make a meal of my ducks. There were nights I lay awake worrying about my little farm. But with each setback, I grew stronger. I learned to adapt, to think critically, and to be resourceful.
One of the most significant lessons I learned was resilience. Just like my ducks, I had to learn to weather the storms. I often remind myself, “If you can handle a flock of ducks, you can handle anything.” This mentality has spilled over into other areas of my life, making me more confident and proactive.
Finding My Community
Duck farming also introduced me to an incredible community. I started connecting with other farmers, both online and offline. We would share stories, successes, and failures. I learned that the farming world is filled with people who genuinely care about each other and the land.
We organized fairs and events, showcasing our products and fostering a sense of camaraderie. It was beautiful to see how passionate people could come together to support one another. I felt like I had finally found my tribe.
Conclusion: A New Beginning
Today, my small duck farm has grown, and I’m proud to say it’s thriving. I’ve learned that sometimes, your calling isn’t what you initially expect. It’s not always about the suit and tie; sometimes, it’s about muck boots and quacking ducks. Duck farming has not only given me a sense of purpose but also a deeper appreciation for life and community.
So, if you’re feeling lost or stuck, remember that sometimes the best things come from unexpected places. You might just find your calling in the most unlikely of situations. What do you think? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments!