"Agriculture Proud" Weighs In on Cowboy Ethics

Ryan Goodman, the author of the blog Agriculture Proud, recently read Cowboy Ethics.  What started as an attraction to the photography became an opportunity for reflection on what is important in life.  We've posted Ryan's blog below, and you can read it and his other writing on his blog here.

Cowboy Ethics – Not just a Code of the West

JUNE 8, 2012

Have you read Cowboy Ethics - a book focused on showing the financial world how far they have moved away from the values and principles that some of this country’s greatest heroes lived for? I originally bought the book because I was intrigued by the photography of theAmerican West, but as soon as I opened the book I began reading, and an hour later I finished the book.

It really made me take into consideration the Code of the West that the author presents. True, some of the legendaryness (that may not be a real word, but it sure fits this spot) of the American Cowboy may be stretched or idolized, but the true message of the story comes through loud and clear. The message may be aimed toward the financial leaders of the country, but the story is for all Americans to read and to take into account.

The Code of the West that the author implies is as follows:

Live Each Day with Courage

Take Pride in Your Work

Always Finish What You Start

Do What Has to be Done

Be Tough, But Fair

When You Make a Promise, Keep It

Ride for the Brand

Talk Less and Say More

Remember That Some Things Aren’t for Sale

Know Where to Draw the Line

These may sound like a fantasized lyric from some ole worn out country song, but after reading through the story from the author I got to thinking about where my priorities are set and how I treat myself and those around me. So I strongly recommend this book by author James P. Owen as a good read for those interested in an encouraging read, and not to mention the awe-stirring photos of the American Western Rancher from David R. Stoecklein. I would even consider this as a great gift for those you feel the need to share the message with.

Ordinary People Achieving Greatness

This book review of The TRY was originally posted at Thoughts From a Modern Mountain Man.  Thanks very much to Dusty Wonderlich (@dustywunderlich)

The Try Book Review: Ordinary People Achieving Greatness

May 21, 2012

The Try is probably the best motivational book I have read mainly due to the people that author James Owen chose to highlight. James Owen has become a major force in my life with the work he has done with his organization, Cowboy Ethics.  Growing up in Elko, Nevada I saw first hand the strong character and culture among the American West ranching families.  James Owen has captured that character and culture in his books (Cowboy Ethics & Cowboy Values) and his organization.

He took this one step further with The Try and highlighted extraordinary people that overcame great obstacles and challenges for their purpose.  Each individual and story is unique with a specific lesson that illustrates what James Owen calls The Try!

The essence of the book was built around eight time world rodeo champion, Ty Murray.  At a very young age Ty’s mother told him that God gave him an extra supply of Try.  Ty used this determination to become the greatest rodeo rider of all time.  Ty and many in the Rodeo world define giving 110% in anything you do as The Try.  This is not something that is handed out easily and those that have The Try are truly dedicated to their purpose.

Author James Owen took this story and found eleven other individuals that define The Try which is characterized through a blend of inner drive, focus, and determination that pushes individuals to pursue their goals relentlessly, confronting every obstacle, and never, ever giving up.

The subtitle is Reclaiming The American Dream and is well suited for each individual story as an example of the character that the United States was built upon.  Our society focuses on high profile athletes, celebrities and politicians but it is those unsung heroes that are the true heart and soul of the United States.  Reading The Try will give every individual new motivation and pride for those quiet heroes in our country.  In a fitting manner the book ends with the following quote:

“You are capable for more than you know. Choose a goal that seems right for you and strive to be the best, however hard the path. Aim high. Behave honorably. Prepare to be alone at times and to endure failure. Persist! The world needs all you can give.” Dr. E.O. Wilson