12/31/2019
With the year end here it was fitting to stumble upon this photo from my very first show in 2004. After laughing at everything wrong with the picture I took some time to reflect on the numerous people who have helped or encouraged me along the way. There are too many people to thank so instead I’ll offer some advice of my own.
Juniors: take in all the help and advice you can get- every show is an opportunity to learn and grow. You don’t have to listen to everything you’re told but you should take the time to consider it. When you win- stay humble. When you lose- stay respectful. Remember that the statement “It’s one man’s opinion” doesn’t only apply when you lose, it applies to winning too. Don’t get caught up competing with others, there will always be someone better than you. Focus on beating yourself every time and one day you’ll find a picture like this and realize how far you’ve come.
To those more experienced: if you see someone making a big mistake- tell them. They probably don’t realize and they can’t change what they don’t know. If you see someone doing a great job- tell them. They might be focusing on the little things they’re doing wrong instead of the big things they’re doing right. If you have the chance to help someone- do it. Those good deeds don’t go unnoticed and will likely come back to benefit you. Regardless of if the people beside you raise national champions or the worst cattle you’ve ever seen- respect them. We all pay the same entry fees, you’re not above or below anyone else.
Those are just a few of the lessons I’ve learned on this 16 year journey in the Hereford business and I look forward to learning many more. Happy New Year and thanks for the great run so far!