Our Best Friends

Man's best friend...is it really the dog? As popular of a belief as this may be...I must disagree! I have discovered the TRUE best friend of man-kind, and it is not our canine friend (although I do love dogs).

No, human's true best friend is their Ag teacher! Yes, you see the dog is only a back-up for those who aren't in agriculture education! Well, as goofy as it may sound, this statement was just cemented for me during my team's time spent at the National Agriculture Educator Inservice in Indianapolis, Indiana this late January.

During this week, I had the privilege to meet agriculture teachers and state staff from all across the United States. There were three specific highlights for me this week. The first, was having the opportunity to listen to and learn from Mr. Tim Elmore, author of the leadership books Habitudes. For about six hours I sat listening to Mr. Elmore and learned what it means to truly be a servant-leader. One shocking lesson we learned about is the importance for a leader to continually grow oneself. This refuels their mind, which allows them to have the same inspirational abilities to lead others.

My second highlight of this week was meeting new agriculture educators. Casual conversations and quick introductions were a fun way to meet the individuals I have heard so much about from my peers/friends from all over the states. A suggestion I would give you, when you get the chance to meet people from other parts of the United States, learn as much as you can about them! Not only is it fun, but it broadens your world!

Finally, my largest highlight from this week was spending time with my own state staff. Our Kansas Executive Secretary Ms. Mary Kane and the Kansas State Foundation Director Ms. Jill Zimmerman. Spending quality time with these two individuals has helped to grow my leadership potential, and they continue to help make me a better person.

Many times, our best friends are those who challenge us the most. Think of your Ag teacher. Whether you realize it or not, they may just be your best friend. Take advantage of them and learn from those lessons they teach us both directly and indirectly.