Image Credit: thestoeckleincollection.com
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 the American 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.
Do you have any Cowboy Ethics that would apply well to the world today?
Related articles
- Gunsmoke had it right. (dollysdaughter.wordpress.com)
- Why the Cowboy Code is not frivolous (agricultureproud.com)
- Readings and Ruminations (agricultureproud.com)
Thanks for drawing attention to this! What this country needs is more people willing to do their part and quit worrying about everyone else. Change never started with pointing the finger at someone else…it starts with us.
Courage
Honesty
Respect
Integrity
Strength
Truth
Let he who has eyes see the truth in the six words.
I’m gonna have to throw in my favorite John Wayne quote which in my mind is like the golden rule – cowboy style.
“I won’t be wronged. I won’t be insulted. I won’t be laid a-hand on. I don’t do these things to other people, and I require the same from them”
- J.B. Books (John Wayne) in the “Shootist”
You got that right
Thanks for this blog – I plan to include this “Code of the West” in Sunday’s Adult classe Sunday School Lesson . Didn’t we grow up with this code? It should never go out of style.
AMEN
Thanks Judy! Let me know what kind of feed back you get on Sunday!
Hey Ryan, thanks for the blog. I’m going to crosspost it on the Cowboy Ethics website http://www.cowboyethics.org – I’ll post it to our social networks too. We’ve got lots more where Cowboy Ethics came from, so take a look at our site when you have the chance. Thanks again!
Thanks for sharing Nathan! I’ll be sure to take a look around your site.
Ryan,
I found your blog when doing research for a design project I am working on. I am a graphic design student at the University of Wyoming. I am working on a stamp series project focusing on the ten principles from Cowboy Ethics. Thought you would like to see it when I am finished?
That would be pretty cool. Send me an email.
Will do. I will be finished next week!