Dreams really do come true. I once was lost and now I'm found. My name is Jeannie Foraker. I was born 39 years ago in Newark Delaware and have ived in this great state since. I appreciate the opportunity to share about my darkest days that led to the redemption story of my dream becoming a reality. Thinking and writing about my life humbles me as I reflect on the changes that have occurred over the years. My story is no different than the stories of many others. My former life consisted of upheavals, hard life events, self imposed crises, addiction, trauma, chaos and confusion. I was merel existing in a big fast world and thought I would never make a difference. Ten long hard years of suffering finally came to an end when I surrendered to a different way of life on November 10, 2016 - the most important day in my life. From that day my life continues to be transformed in every way imaginable. My heart and mind are free of clutter and my outer world is a direct mirror of my internal world - vibrant, joyful and full of love. I have purpose thanks to God. My work began at 8 years old cutting grass with a push mower not able to see over the handle bars to recently building rocket pads for NASA. I have many accomplishments but the one I give the highest regard is making the choice to grow spiritually and mentally everyday.
I could have never achieved alone who I and what I have. I am forever grateful for every single person who has loved me when I didn't love myself and to offer their experience so I could feel hope on my darkest days. Today I give thanks to God for all of the skills and gifts given to me. I recognize now that my past was necessary for what I am now creating at Second Chance Farm. I am proud of my accomplishments and skills, but I want to be know for the hearts and minds I have touched rather than things I have done. My accomplishments are reminders on hard days that all things are possible with the correct mindset, grit, commitment and sheer determination. It's those days that condition my spirit the most and transform every limiting belief I have about myself, the world and others. I believe everything is an opportunity. Life doesn't happen to us rather always happening for us, molding us for our highest good if we choose to experience situations with that mindset and an open heart. I received a second chance at life. I was saved by grace and through many people who held the space for me as I healed and grew into the person I am today. My desire is to use all my gifts and talent to create a space where others can heal and grow.
My goal is to give others a second chance at life. My true hearts desire is to create a community where people come as strangers and leave as friends. This farm represents who I am and what I believe. This farm will include who I feel others are when they are given an opportunity to feel safe and unobstructed. On the farm, we embrace the idea that working hands are healing hands. The act of labor - tending the soil, planting seeds, and harvesting crops - does more than just produce food; it nurtures the soul. The rhythmic, purposeful tasks of farm life offer a tangible connection to the earth, grounding those who feel adrift and providing a sense of accomplishment that mends emotional wounds. As people work side by side, sweat and dirt on their hands, they find solace in the simplicity of the effort and the community it builds. The physical exertion releases stress, while the visible fruits of their labor - whether a ripe tomato or a mended fence - restores a sense of agency and hope.
Here, healing doesn't come from idleness but from the quiet power of working hands, transforming both the land and the lives of those who tend it.
