About the only way I know how to read is when I finish one book, I go right on to the next. In fact, I actually read two books at a time; don’t ask how I manage. This weekend I finished a book from an old cowboy friend and picked up the next from my shelf, Growing Up Colt by former Texas Longhorn Quarterback Colt McCoy and his dad Brad. Not that I’m a Longhorn fan, but rather a fan of Colt.

I think I was meant to pick up this one today. In the first few chapters, Colt talks about the roots his parents laid for him, as he finished at UT and his first start with the Browns. In it he talks about being patient, prepared, and keeping your head on straight. I look forward to rest of the book (30 pages in before I came up for air) and reading thoughts from Colt and his father. What struck me more was the viewpoint of looking for God to open a door after he seemingly closes another in your face. That’s kinda where I’m at in life right now.

This will be my last week at the ranch in Southern Arkansas. Not that I want to leave, but sometimes we have to chose what’s best for us. I hate moving. I hate not being able to settle in one place. But I’m looking for that place that fits me, and I’m waiting on God to open that door. Ranching is my passion, no doubt about that. I’m also passionate about sharing my knowledge and passion with others (hence this blog). But sometimes we take risks, and once in a while those risks come back to bite us. So I find myself “between jobs.”

But I should count my blessings, as well all should. Only God knows where our path will lead us, and it’s not our job to dwell on the past. I want to look for that open door. Where I can make a positive impact in Agriculture, build upon my skills in cattle production, and share my passion with others. I told myself a long time ago I was going to be a cattleman and make a difference, and that’s still where my goals are set. I just have to figure out where that next step will be.

At this point, I may not have the stability in my life some employers are looking for, but I’m working on it. I do have my parents to thank for my good raising. Heck I really ought to thank my dad for putting up with me since my mom passed 5 years ago this week. It’s been a rough road, but I have those principles to lean back on.

In Growing Up Colt, Colt lines out 4 principles his parents raised him by and even though they may not have expressed it, I’m pretty sure my parents gave me the same.

  1. Prepare your children for the path, not the path for your children
  2. Prepare your children to do their best
  3. Prepare your children to be leaders
  4. Prepare your children for opened and closed doors

I may not have kids yet, but can certainly thank my parents for what they gave me. Have you read Growing Up Colt? What did you make of it? I’m just getting started, but look for their to be some good thoughts to ruminate on throughout the book. If you do not yet have a copy, get one.

And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him — Hebrews 11:6 (NIV)

Published by Ryan Goodman

Ryan Goodman works in grassroots advocacy as a communications consultant with beef cattle farmers and ranchers across the United States. He is a proud alumnus of Oklahoma State University, with studies focusing on cattle reproduction and nutrition. Ryan's experience in the beef industry range from family farms and ranches in several states to large feedlots and non-profit policy organizations. Ryan is an avid trail and ultrarunner, proudly showing how beef can be an important part of a healthy diet and active lifestyle. Find Ryan on social media as @BeefRunner.