As I was driving down Highway 31, I noticed a small herd of what we commonly refer to as “feeder cattle,” young steers being raised to go to finishing yards for beef production. I noticed one particular red steer who had walked away from the herd and was standing by a fence. I could not help but look at him as I drove by. He lifted his head and started to walk back towards the herd.
A lot of you are familiar with the parable that Jesus taught about the Shepherd leaving the 99 to go find the one. I’ve wondered sometimes about the one that comes back to the 99.
You see, at times we all want to take a little break. We want to separate ourselves from the masses and have a time of solace and reflection, and perhaps even regeneration. But at some point in time, we return to the masses because that’s what we do. We interact with other people.
As Sheriffs, there will be times that you will need to walk away from the circumstances, from the problems, from the challenges; but, as you regenerate yourself, you will return to the masses because that’s who you are. You are a leader, and people look to you and welcome you back fresh, invigorated, and inspired.
As I watched that red steer return to the herd in my right rearview mirror, I noticed that all the other steers were looking at him as he walked back.
Always remember, all eyes are upon you. They look to you for inspiration and guidance.
-Huey ‘Hoss’ Mack
Executive Director, Alabama Sheriffs Association
Add Value, Preach Hope, and Persist Without Exception
