Although it’s a romantic notion that’s been around for more than a half a century, it’s been my experience that real cowboys aren’t anything like Gene Autry, John Wayne or Roy Rogers. To be sure, most cowboys will never get into a gun fight, hide an extra ace in their boot or ride off into the sunset. But if you’re looking for an iconic example of the kind of person that helped to shape this country–it’s the American Cowboy.
Characterized by grit, determination, hard work, and a love for freedom, there’s little question that the Cowboy code still exists to this day. And in light of everything that’s going on in the world, it’s refreshing to know that there are still people who will look you in the eye, speak with an economy of words, and give you the shirt off their back if you need it.
This country could use a few more cowboys.
In western Nebraska, kids don’t dream about growing up to be football stars or astronauts–they grow up dreaming about one day becoming a Cowboy. But it’s not until you are around them that you realize how badly they want this dream to come true–and you can’t help but be moved by their desire.
Leave a note.