I’m starting this year off with an article published in the Epoch Times written by a 72-year-old cowboy named Jerry Sinor. He talks about the rules of
being a cowboy. I thought they were interesting and had great application for all of us. Rule #1
applies only to us guys. The other twelve are for all of us to think about.

1. When you meet or are introduced to a lady: you remove your hat and say, “Pleased to meet you ma’am.” A lady is 3 years old to 150 years old.
   
2. Live each day with courage. If need be, then die for the Creator, family, friends, and country – sometimes for someone you don’t know.
3. Take pride in your work. Do the best you can because you ride for the brand. That means your boss is your master. If you don’t respect your master, then saddle up and ride away.
4. Do what needs to be done. And beyond what folks expect.
5. Always finish what you start. Think before starting anything in life. It will save you a lot of time and pain.
6. Be tough but fair. Don’t back off from what you know is right – but sometimes what you think is right is wrong and wrong is right.
7. Make your word your bond. Say what you do and do what you say. Yes, means yes. And no means no.
8. Talk less and say more. 50-cent words are better than $100 words - and you won’t bore the reader with 2 pounds of ear wax.
9. Some things aren’t for sale. Your word, truth, love, and kindness must never be compromised for profit.
10. Know where to draw the line. It takes a lifetime to know where to draw the line, so sit at the feet of old men and women and keep your trap shut and just open your ears.
11. Obey all the laws of the Creator. (Start with the 10)
12. Take care of your horse. If not, then don’t ride one. This applies to dogs and cats too.
13. Know what evil is. It’s not outside, it is inside each and every one of us – get rid of it.

I tip my hat, even with my bad hat hair, to this cowboy and his sage advice!