As we gather around our tables this holiday season, America’s farmers and ranchers have good reason to be thankful and to hope. Thanksgiving began on the farm, and I can’t think of a more fitting place for the roots of hope and gratitude to take hold. Yes, we have faced — and continue to face — hard times, but we don’t reserve gratitude only for the easy times.

Even on the tough days, I can’t imagine a better job than being a farmer, taking care of the land that’s been home to my family for three generations....