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Faith and Commitment

     There are many times in our lives when we feel like we are not in control.  We feel like everything happening is beyond our reach and we are just spiraling out of control.  Or there are times when we feel like everything is going wrong.  I have always been a big believer in everything happens for a reason.  We may not know for years down the road why god has put so much on our shoulders.  One day the light will shine in and you will see clarity and understand more than you can imagine.

     As we get older in life we we become very conscious of the burdens that we and others bare when it comes to our loved ones.  Children carry one of the biggest crosses when we have to bury a parent.  It's never easy and no matter how peacefully they pass.  It's always hard to say goodbye.  We hate to see a parent go at any age in life.  Whether they have lived a long full life or cut down in their prime.  The one thing to keep in mind, is cherish the moments you did have while they were here with you. Remember the good in all.

     There is one thing I know to be true.  Time heals all wounds.  The scars will always remain as reminders of the tough times, we learn to cope with the loss and how to move on with our lives.  Many men in families are called the Patriarch.  This is a great term to use for the men in families who stand out and help guide others to what is right in life.  When they go on to meet their maker they can become known as a legend. We have the opportunity to go through old pictures, stories and share the good times.  We also have a chance to reflect on what is really important in our lives.  The patriarchs in the family often set the tone of the situation.  They are the ones that guide all others to a better direction.  They are not about self gain or promotion. They help others for their own self gain. These men want you to succeed and benefit from their experience. They help you avoid certain pitfalls in life.  They are a true blessing.

     I have written in a previous blog there are only 2 certainties in life.  Death and Taxes.  I hate them both and I think most people do.  People however learn live with both of these and have a very productive life.  As we grow and experience new adventures, our circle of friends will expand or shrink.  You never know how many friends and family you have until tragedy happens.  People are more than welcome to step up and lend a hand.  They are there to comfort and console.

    Growing up in the cattle industry I have discovered a lot about people.  I was very shy as a child. (Please stop laughing, it's true!)  Talking to people was something I did not want to to do until I needed something.  As I grew older I realized that I was good at communicating with others.  I also found out I love people. I love to learn about them, where they are from and what they do.  I think it helps me understand people and form educated opinions.  Learning about the nature of people help me in every aspect of my life.  It helps you even if you don't realize it.

     At different stages in our life we sometimes need a little push or coaching to get passed an issue or to take a leap of faith.  There is nothing more encouraging than being surrounded by those that love you and want to see you succeed.  For the most part that is what people in the agriculture industry represent.  They are good people who believe in god, country and each other.  People step up in so many ways and continue to give all the time. There is always that family that supports kids at the county fair and purchase their exhibits at auction or donate to their fund.  They give and buy at auctions so others have a chance to prosper.

     Fundraisers have been a great way for people to give back to those who are in real need.  We as a community, state and nation can raise thousands of dollars for people who have been devastated by wildfires.  We can raise the same money just months later for a young person severely injured in a car accident.  People will always step up and do what is right even when they know they could be punished by laws or regulations.  I am a true believer that god helps guide us all the time.  He knows what is going on and allows everything to happen for a reason.  We might not understand it at the time, we will in time though see the big picture.

     Commitment is one item that binds us in many different aspects.  Some are committed to their church, others are committed to their jobs, and even others are committed to their families.  Each of these scenarios do not have to be mutually exclusive.  People in agriculture and many other communities do it all the time.  These people are committed to the task at hand.  Many people in this country and world have those traits and have never stepped foot in a church, or a synagogue.  And they have the strongest commitment to their family, community and special causes.

     When certain people step into your life.  You might not understand why they are there or what impact they will have on you.  It is best to great everyone with a smile, a firm handshake and an open mind.  You can learn all you want about someone in the first few minutes of any conversation.  These brief encounters can leave a life time impression.  It only takes a minute make someones horrible day a great day and turn that frown, upside down.

     When we loose someone close we can go into a dark place for a little while.  We can also have a huge weight lifted off our shoulders and feel like we can move on without regret.  All of this is normal and human in nature.  What you need to remember is that there are people out there that love and care about you and you have NO idea who they are.  You have NO idea how much they will help you or give their time to make your life better.

     As we go through this game called life.  It's important to always be kind.  Most people who have faith and commitment are kind giving individuals.  They learn to smile through a situation and give unconditionally.  This is what I love about our country, and even rural life.  People understand that when you are in need, your differences, no matter how big or small are put aside.  You step up and do what is right.

     In this year alone there will be approximately 55.3 million people die.  Also in this year there will be approximately 131 million births.  We should celebrate the beginning of life and also the end of life.  We need to make sure everyone has an opportunity to succeed.  I believe on your death beds, you make peace with your sins and are forgiven.  You will live an eternal life with the lord above.  This may not be the belief of everyone and that is okay.  What we have to remember is that even without religion, you have faith in others doing the right thing, you are committed to your loved ones and we all want success for those in our life.

"I love those who can smile in trouble, who can gather strength from distress, and grow brave by reflection. 'Tis the business of little minds to shrink, but they whose heart is firm, and whose conscience approves their conduct, will pursue their principles unto death." ~ Leonardo da Vinci

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