“It’s okay, Cecillia, stand up, dust yourself off, and grab ahold of the halter.”
These words are some of the earliest memories I have with my father. I was seven years old and taking on the largest challenge I had ever faced, breaking my bucket calf to lead. Looking back now, this doesn’t seem like such a challenge, but it seemed impossible for the 3ft 8in girl in her t-shirt, athletic shorts, and mud boots.
We all face challenges in our lives, whether it is breaking a bucket calf to lead, trying a new FFA contest, or enrolling in a new class. These challenges can seem impossible to achieve, but what if we approach them with a growth mindset?
During these past nine months of state office, I have enjoyed traveling across the state, meeting new members, and learning more about agriculture in Kansas. These opportunities are once-in-a-lifetime, and when challenges arise, by approaching them with a growth mindset, we are able to grow as leaders and people.
Throughout this year, I have built many relationships, but one of my favorites is the relationship I have built with my team. Every member of this team brings joy and laughter to the table. The relationship that we have built is something that will last a lifetime. It does not matter what we are doing; my teammates’ bright smiles and radiant personalities always make my day better. Nothing will ever replace the bond and memories that we have created.
Life is full of opportunities. We can choose to embrace the challenges, learn from the opportunities, and foster the relationships that we build. We can always choose to take life by the halter. All we have to do is lead!
Cecillia Newby