Being a rancher 's child can be both a blessing and a curse. It 's a blessing because it creates hard work, ethic, integrity, and good strong values. It 's a curse because you only socialize with animals. We can 't call in sick to work or take a vacation. It is 24/7 for life, we have to keep on working no matter the circumstances because we don 't desert our job. My parents weren 't scared to give me responsibility, they knew I was capable of doing work. Dirt under your fingernails was no big deal and a pair of boots were your best friend. We understood how to have dignity and respect. We find peace by going out in the middle of a pasture and watching the sunset while counting cattle. Ranching teaches us what life is all about. We understand that there will be bumps in the road and that life can get hard, but we see past that at the reward of taking care of something besides ourselves. While being a rancher’s child can be both a blessing and a curse, it 's a wonderful upbringing that I would wish anyone to have. You …show more content…
At the age of 10 my great grandparents passed away. It was my time to step up and become a leader and role model for my younger sister. I began to help my dad more on the ranch. I helped with many chores. During that time, I learned a lot from my dad. I learned how to properly vaccinate cattle, the anatomy of cattle, how to care for a small and large herd of livestock, and how to carry on the family legacy in the small town of Toronto Kansas.
By the time I was an 8th grader I could count on more than one hand how many amazing opportunities I have experienced living in the life of Agriculture. I was enrolled in 4-H and FFA. The lessons learned by being a member of these organizations are so valuable. 4-H makes you love agriculture even more. 4-H opens doors for you and allows you to make connections for today, tomorrow and into the future. It gives you the motivation to get involved. Pushes you outside of your comfort zone. 4-H makes you a better