Pay attention America....

I recently took a trip up to the Sandhills of Western Nebraska and as I drove for miles on end without a town in sight, I realized that the rest of America could learn a thing or two from the people who call this home. If you aren't familiar with this part of the country, let me tell you that it is the most beautiful but desolate place you might ever find. The towns are easily 30-60 miles apart if not more, and by town, I mean a group of 10-15 houses and a post office if you are lucky. The nearest Walmart or McDonalds is 3-4 hours away for some of these folks. Shopping takes on a whole new meaning when it takes a full day's drive to get to the nearest grocery store. They are resourceful, genuine people and America should sit up and take note of their way of life. Here are some of my simple observations from last week's visit to a ranch....

• People, without exception, drive with a 'one wrist grip' at the "12:00" position on the steering wheel so that they can easily give a full hand wave when they meet you on the road... and not just the little 'raised finger' waive like you sometimes see either!


• EVERYONE you meet looks you straight in the eye, smiles, and says hello. I don't know if it's just that they are so happy to see someone for a change or if they are really that friendly, but it's amazing how contagious it is.


• Their simple philosophy is that "If we take care of the land, it will take care of us". This applies to every aspect of their operation from the land and facilities to the livestock and neighbors.


• The use any excuse to have a get-together. This probably stems from the social isolation that most folks experience in the sandhills, but it's inspiring to see the neighbors (ie anyone within a 100 mile radius) band together for a common cause. Be it branding, shipping, or haying, they always throw an "after" party for their friends.


• Their idea of "fast food" is pulling a roast from the freezer and putting it in the crock pot.


• You can buy all your essentials at the local lumber store including milk, beer, and tabacco!


• I would challenge any animal rights activist to find happier cows anywhere. Belly deep grass for miles and miles during the summer and an "all-you-can-eat" hay buffet during the winter months. These folks stay up all night during calving to make sure the new babes don't freeze, and will sacrifice everything for the sake of the herd. America's farmers and ranchers are feeding the world, one day at a time.

So the next time you are stuck in traffic, faced with a grouchy attendent at the gas station, or considering "running to the store" to pick up a few things, think about the hard working folks of the Nebraska Sandhills (or all of rural america for that matter) and be grateful for what you have!