Every once in a while we find those people who are an inspiration in our lives, their lives encourage us to strive for better, and they leave a legacy that will touch so many others after they are gone. For me, there are two people that come to mind. My momma and Lane Frost. Both lived doing something they loved most. Both were taken at a young age by the animals they worked with. Both left a legacy that touch so many people.
Lane’s story has been made known to the world through his popularity as a world champion bull rider and through the film 8 Seconds. Even though it is a Hollywood version of his life, the film does well to depict the hard work and dedication of rural living. As Kellie’s character stated, “Country folk are the best kind; hard working, down to earth, and sincere.” Lane was able to do for a living what enjoyed most, bull riding, and it was the bull in Cheyenne that eventually killed him. His lifestyle influenced those around him and still leaves a memorable impression on all who hear his story.
My mom did not have the fame and attention of a national star, but she was large than life to me. She worked hard to raise my brothers and me, learned to love what my dad did for a living, and worked beside him on the ranch until the day she died sorting cattle in our barn. I knew she was more than a mother to me, a best friend, and someone who had my best interests in mind, but I never knew the impression she made until so many showed up to pay their respects. She lived her life for God, her family, and working hard on the ranch. I promised myself I would live my life to the fullest and best, because I know she’s watching over my shoulder.
Some things are hard to admit, but I do choke up whenever I watch the film 8 Seconds. It’s not only the story of Lane’s life that gets to me, but also the reminder of how I promised I would live my life. Sometimes I gotta set a few things back on track.
Live your life with a purpose and make a positive impact on others, because you never know when your last tomorrow will come.
“Don’t be afraid to go after what you want to do, and what you want to be. But don’t be afraid to be willing to pay the price.” — lane frost
Who are your heroes? Do they influence the goals set in your life? I know my heroes sure influence mine.
There’s a hundred years of history
and a hundred before that
All gathered in the thinkin’
Goin’ on beneath this hat.The cold flame burns within him
‘Til his skin’s as cold as ice
And the dues he paid to get here
Are worth every sacrifice.All the miles spend sleepy drivin’
All the money down the drain,
All the ‘if I’s’ and ‘nearly’s,’
All the bandages and pain,All the female tears left dryin’,
All the fever and the fight
Are just a small down payment
On the ride he makes tonight.It’s guts and love and glory,
One mortal’s chance at fame.
His legacy is rodeo
And cowboy is his name.–Baxter Black
Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 3:12-14
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