“Keep away from people who try to belittle your ambitions. Small people always do that, but the really GREAT make you feel that you, too, can BECOME GREAT.” ~ Mark Twain

As I worked to meet deadlines and catch up office work, I could hear our two youngest boys gearing up to wrestle in the living room. The older of the two is going into his second season, and the youngest is giving the sport a whirl for the first time.

I expected tears and a fight and was prepared to ref the event. Instead, I heard our nine-year-old offer encouragement as he put moves on to pin his little brother.

Nothing motivates greatness like a brother who believes you can do anything.

“Come on, buddy. You can do it. Don’t quit. Keep fighting. We all believe in you. I believe in you. You can do it. You can beat me. Keep going.”

The little one didn’t win. Our middle boy has a giant heart, but he doesn’t quit either😉 However, our youngest believed he had it in him to whoop his brother. He came running to tell me that he almost won. He was so close and didn’t quit.

My mom heart went back to work quite full. The boys’ exchange was one I needed for many reasons. I found it especially meaningful as I think about our ranch life.

We are in a misunderstood, underrepresented industry. No two ranch businesses or families are alike. It can feel like we’re on an isolated island. That’s why it’s so important to surround ourselves with great people.

Each of us has it within ourselves to be great. If you don’t believe it yet, make sure the people around you do. Life is too short for small minds and naysayers. I pray we can all find the kind of confidence and support our boys showed for each other.

#WeAreRanchers #TakeEmDown #fightclub #ranchstyle