"We're Peanut Born and peanut Bred"

by Bridget McKneely, 2018 Suffolk Peanut Fest Queen 

I believe we all have a symbol that represents our lives.  Someone who is easy-going and “goes with the flow” may consider their symbol a wave. Another person who is fun, tall and super sweet could be a pineapple. For me, my symbol is a “peanut.”  Although quite an odd symbol, it is the most appropriate for my life. In our little town of Suffolk, we are peanut born and peanut bred. I consider myself peanut born and bred because of my roots, the ability to stay grounded, and that I have learned to break out of my shell.

Peanuts grow underground, yet they flower above the ground, making them an unusual and unique plant. As for myself,                I may just look like another dainty flower on the outside, but my real depth is beneath the surface.  A peanut’s existence relies solely on its roots, and I feel the same.  My roots are very important to me, because they keep me grounded and have taught me morals that I will always lean back on. My faith and morals have taught me to always work hard, always see the best in others, and always be respectful.  Like a peanut, I try my best to stay humble and grounded, because if I do not, I will be pulled away from my roots.

The shells of peanuts give them their recognizable look, but we only care about what is inside the shell once it breaks open.        I grew up in Chesapeake and then branched out to Suffolk for the beginning of my high school career. My little peanut –self was still in her shell, and I was quite shy going to a new school. When I started my first day in Suffolk, I was so pleasantly surprised!  Everyone was so kind and had a sweet hint of southern hospitality to them- something I was familiar with and always appreciate when others have it too.  It was at that time when I realized I needed to break out of my shell and I did!            I gained so much confidence and became secure with myself, all because of my Suffolk Peanut people that made me feel          proud of myself.

​The more time I spent with my peanut people, the more I have “grown” to be like them, but have still kept my “roots” (pun intended). I have always been peanut bred because of my morals, even though I was not necessarily peanut born.  People in Suffolk, Virginia, are truly a different breed, we have a genuine care for others and always find the positive in every situation.    I am blessed to have become a peanut person, and I challenge everyone I meet to do the same – keep your roots, stay grounded, and do not be afraid to break out of your shell.