I love Cowboys.
Always have and always will.
They’re strong, grounded in the simple things and not afraid of hard work.
Here are a few of my favorite lessons I’ve learned from them:
1) Be careful how you wield thy spur.
Once you jab your spur deep, you can’t take it back.
Be foolish, and you might lose your seat.
Just like in relationships…once hurtful words are hurled, they’re out there for good, and no matter how many “I’m sorry’s” you hear next, you may never again regain proper balance.
There may be times when you’re tempted to say or do something brash, and you press steel beyond what you know is needed, but think wisely about your actions.
Spurs are yet tools for communication, and finesse goes a long, looong way…
Push too hard and you better be ready for a wild ride!
Oh and who can forget one of the most important lessons: Don’t squat with your spurs on!
2) You have to work hard, even when the world is being cold and nasty.
This one is easy.
Quit complaining about how hard life is and cowboy up!
Quit thinking “If only… (the weather were better, or the market was hotter)” or “That’s not fair because…(I’ve worked harder than she did…)”
Excuses are wasted energy. When things get dark and twisty, you show up anyway. You have to do it. The work must be done.
So… “You gonna do somethin’? Or are you just gonna stand there and bleed?” (Ten points if you get this movie reference.)
Make wise decisions and execute!
If the wind is blowing in your face and you feel like it’s going to explode, you can’t stop. If you decide it’s too cold, the animals will starve.
You can’t think only of yourself first, you have to think of those who depend on you.
You must think globally. Make the right decision, even if it’s the most uncomfortable or difficult decision.
John Wayne said “Courage is being scared to death but saddling up anyway.”
Take the good with the bad and thank the lord each day you wake up breathing.
Life is full of ups and downs; hang on and enjoy the amazing ride.
If you get bucked off, you have to get back on and ride again!
Even though this one is simple, it’s doesn’t make it easy.
Remind yourself to move out of language of complaint and move into the language of action.
It’s the cowboy way and remember, “Nobody died in his own sweat.”
Stay tuned for part 2!