Have you ever been in a situation where you’ve had to change or cancel plans because of your livestock? Growing up this was a struggle that I faced daily. From weekend shows to feeding my animals, there always seemed to be an obstacle that I needed to tackle in my weekly schedule. Sometimes that obstacle was having to sort out my priorities and cancel different activities. Sometimes it was trying to fit in sports practice, feeding, and a FFA meeting all in one night. However, these were all things that I could handle.
The greatest obstacle that I never seemed to conquer was when others didn’t understand my dedication. Individuals who aren’t involved in the livestock industry have a hard time grasping the amount of work that goes into show stock. “Well don’t you just feed them like once a day or something?” If only it were that simple! No matter how hard you try to explain the labor of your love, sometimes they just don’t get it, and that’s okay. But at the end of the day, it’s your project, your stock, and your passion.
Others don’t need to understand why you spend so much time working hair, or feeding, or practicing showmanship. Have confidence and determination in what you do, and I promise you the results of your hard work will speak much louder than spoken words.
-Taylor Richardson
“Doing what I love, loving what I do,” is the quote that I base my life upon. Inspired by my grandfather, I strive to be a service-minded individual in both the stock show and agriculture industries. Growing up you could find me in the barns with my lambs and goats, serving as an officer for my FFA chapter, or playing badminton! Though my hometown is in Sonoma County, California I am currently living in Chico, California as I pursue a bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Science and a teaching credential in Agriculture Education. I look forward to the next year guest blogging for Weaver Leather Livestock and am so grateful for the opportunity!