If you have been following my posts, you’ll know that I moved to Tennessee in September with intentions to begin graduate school in January. In the mean time, I’m working on the Middle Tennessee research station and getting to know my adviser who is an Extension Beef Specialist with UT. We’ve been getting some good windshield time this week as we travel to various Master Beef Producers meetings (more on these next week). I am excited about these opportunities and pursing my passion in the beef cattle community.

Yesterday we traveled to main campus in Knoxville for my interview with the graduate committee – part of the application process. Was I nervous? Yeah. I know first impressions are important and tried to prepare for the array of questions that could come my way. In doing all of this, I wanted to keep a few things in mind. I try my best to be a genuine person, like a “What you see is what you get” thing. I don’t need to pretend to know more than I do. I work hard at things and am excited about learning opportunities, especially when related to cattle production. And most importantly, things will turn out like they’re supposed to. If I work hard and give it my all, God will meet me half way, and it’ll go according to His plan.

Back at the house, after a long day on the road, and a million things going through my mind, I ran across an interesting blog post from Kevin Weatherby. He tells of a young cowboy who joined the crew, learned everything from his elders, and wound up marrying the rancher’s daughter. As a kid, he looked up to the old cowboys, admired them for their advice, and worked hard to be a part of the team. When he married the rancher’s daughter, he eventually turned into the boss, got the big head, and decided his way was best.

As I pursue my passion, aspire for great things, and work hard to learn more, I need to remember my roots. No matter how good or bad things turn out, I need to keep my head up and never stop serving. I need to keep in mind the lessons from James: patience, serving others, faith, hard work, and again, faith and patience.

No matter where I go, what I do, or who I become…

11) The greatest among you will be your servant. 12) For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted. Matthew 23

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.