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Working and living within the Stock Show Industry, I am blessed to encounter many remarkable people, places and events. I don't take enough time out of my hectic life to "stop smell the roses". I've fallen victim to continuing to strive, getting to the next event, answering the questions as soon as possible, etc.; the hustle and bustle of life.
The other day I had a friend that shared something on their social media page. She is most often an observer, or offers 'Likes' or 'Loves'. I read what she shared; a simple post from Zane Webster. Zane's post was aw-inspiring. Zane spoke to the soul of EVERY participant in our sport.
I do not know Zane, but I reached out to him. I asked him if I could share his post with our audience. He agreed, for which I am thankful. Zane speaks to each and every one of us in this business. He offers a perspective that we should all get, but few can explain. I ask that you read this. Bookmark it. Remember it. But more importantly, share this perspective with others, and LIVE IT!
Copied with permission: Zane Webster September 5, 2021
I was honored to judge at the county fairgrounds I grew up at. A very humbling “full circle” experience I won’t forget. Kinda funny, but I never won a big banner in that show ring. Not once, and now I’m evaluating in the same ring. I think the moral of the story is to not define yourself by wins or losses. Banners and buckles do tarnish and fade, and hard work and a good attitude can take you places.
To the kids that win, I am proud of you. It takes so much hard work, and patience to get to the top. You truly deserve everything you win, but please remember that although buckles, banners, and more are great...you will never be judged by how many you have. Better yet, you’ll be judged my the content of your heart and character. No one remembers who won a jackpot a month ago, or county fair three years ago. However, people do remember who was nice and a good sport. If you’re blessed enough to get to win consistently, remember the greatest prize you’ll ever win is the gratitude of others you helped get to your level.
To the kids that never have won. Or will never win. You are enough. For a long time I thought because I didn’t come from the right family in the show industry, have the right connections, or didn’t have a heap of banners growing up that I was just average. That is a lie I told myself. Your losses and criticism might be a bigger learning lesson than ever winning the big one. Just like the champions, no one remembers who won what or how often. They remember who were good people that won and lost with class and grace. So I challenge you to never give up. This industry thrives off the stories of the winners and the families that are “all that” as it should!...but there is a place for everyone in this industry, and I can tell you that with hard work, you can do anything.
Very humbling weekend I won’t forget ...