by Terry Lidral
The year 2020 was one for the history books. It tried our spirits, our toughness and our hearts. And through it all, it was rodeo and the bucking stock industry that led the charge to keep the American spirit alive. Through the toughest times our nation has seen in decades, we kept going as best we could.
Common sense and adaptability were key to managing an industry devastated by a national pandemic we didn’t understand. But we understood how to stand tall in hard times. Many of us came together to create opportunities under severely limited and restricted circumstances. Some of us were fortunate enough to be part of those opportunities. For some of us it was about dealing with cancelled seasons and hungry, idle mouths to feed.
The year behind us has left us all more than a little beat up. Even for those who prospered, it was tough. And it took its toll on the industry and its future. None of us can pretend that there weren’t losses and big ones in some cases. How the bucking stock industry goes forward will be up to us as a community. The little guy is as important to the business as the leaders in the industry. We all play a part. Finding our own role in the grand scheme of moving forward is our challenge. Our industry is known for helping one another through hardships. And for lifting people up when they are hit by bad times.
As we look to this New Year with hope and optimism, let us work to ensure the industry’s future through whatever 2021 throws at us. The bucking stock business is built on heart and determination. We’ve all had our share of good times and bad times. Let us pray that in 2021, the good times will outweigh the bad ones.
Happy New Year and may you find blessings in the year ahead.