Cowboys had their own Code of Ethics;
They were Men of Honor, Their "Good Name" was among their greatest possessions, their hand-shake sealed a deal you could count on. They were honest hard working men, they made their own way in life, and lent a helping hand to their neighbor.
According to Author James P. Owen Author of Cowboy Ethics, he sites 10 basic Codes the Cowboy lived by.
1. Live each day with courage
2. Take pride in your work
3. Always finish what you start
4. Do what has to be done
5. Be tough, but fair
6. When you make a promise keep it
7. Ride for the brand
8. Talk less, say more
9. Remember some things aren't for sale
10. Know where to draw the line
As I reflect about my Dad today
(93 years ago today God sent a precious gift to earth, 8 years ago this month he brought him back home to heaven)
These Cowboy Codes came to mind. While my Dad was born in Texas, therefore he did have some "cowboy" ways, even though he was not a true working cowboy. But he was a man of honor, he was honest and hard working, he shared many of the traits that Cowboys had.
I guess you could say he had his own set of "cowboy" code of ethics. He taught his code of ethics to me, not by word, but by deed and example.
(not that I learned or mastered them all)
Family first and foremost
Unconditional love and genuine kindness
It's better to give than to receive
Find the good in people
Have a sense of humor ~ Be happy don't worry
Work hard, play hard
Play the hand you're dealt ~ If life gives you lemons make lemonade
Being "rich" has nothing to do with money
Root for the home team
Judgement is for God, not Man
Actions and deeds speak louder than words
Always carry some hard candy in your pocket
No matter what the weather is like, it's always good enough for ice cream!
He taught me so many things, but I think these were the basics that encompassed pretty much everything else.
I am so grateful to my Dad for his example, and for his code of ethics. He was such a genuine and good man. He left a Texas size example for me to try and live up to, and an amazing and loving Legacy. I hope I can honor his memory. I am so thankful for the cherished memories I have of him, he will forever be in my heart.
Love you Dad,
Forever Daddy's Girl
2 comments:
Grandpa was truly a hero in my eyes. I strive to be like him in every way possible. HE taught me so much about life, and how to live life. I am glad you too learned many of Grandpa's ways, and passed them down to us kids. Even though my kids will never get to know their Great Grandpa Martin, I hope I can teach theme the many things he taught all of us.
I love you pops, and will forever miss you until the day we are reunited.
He's so cute! I love that picture. It's amazing how many people's lives he touched. It's a true testament to what a good man he was. If everyone were a bit more like him the world would be an even more wonderful place.
Love you always grandpa...and I still love that hair! hee hee
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