Last Friday, I received this picture from my wife of our very large tree in the front yard, blown over by a sudden storm. It was late in the day, and I was engrossed in the details of our first Friday night football game preparations. The tree needed to be cut up and moved; but, I didn’t have the time to make that happen until Saturday. It was going to have to wait.
Midway through the game, I received a text from my daughter. My neighbors, Steve and Stormy (Yes, Stormy…the name fits) Johanknecht, cut up the entire tree and took care of everything. I was blown away by their kindness. I truly have the best neighbors in the world!
When we describe a cowboy who “rides for the brand,” we think of someone honorable and kind. It’s seeing someone in need and pitching in to help without being asked. It’s folks like Stormy and Steve who show the kind of love and support we call “The Wylie Way” that sets our community apart from others. It’s an amazing reflection on them, but it is equally as important to my own children and fellow neighbors who see these selfless acts of kindness and understand their value and importance. It’s what makes us who we are.
Thank you to my wonderful neighbors, and thanks to all of you who “Ride for the Brand” by pitching in without being asked. Thank you for showing kindness to others and for showing each other the Wylie Way. I encourage you to talk to our kids about the value of helping others without being asked, showing kindness to our neighbors, and living the Wylie Way, every day!
