“Paralyze resistance with persistence.”
~ Woody Hayes
Standing in line at Jammin’ Lamb Fest with hundreds of hungry Meeker Classic attendees, with my cardboard meal tray and paper napkin in hand, I eavesdropped on the conversations of those nearby. They laughed and chatted about the town, about who made the finals, about how many years they’ve been coming to watch the dogs and handlers. From time to time they spotted a familiar face in the crowd and waved a greeting, usually another loyal visitor who returns every September for what may be Meeker’s apex event. Some have been loyal followers since the whole thing started, way back in 1987, when the very idea of hosting such an event in Meeker seemed ludicrous.
Persistence, defined as “firm or obstinate continuance in a course of action in spite of difficulty or opposition,” is essential for the success of any worthy endeavor. The Trials themselves are a demonstration of patience, persistence and perseverance. It’s awe-inspiring to watch those dogs take on Meeker’s feisty, fresh-off-the-range sheep, meeting — and overcoming — resistance with persistence, as Ohio football coach Woody Hayes once said. The same can be said for the organizers and volunteers who pull off such a successful, well-organized, well-attended event year after year.
As entrepreneur and author Seth Godin has said, “There’s no shortage of remarkable ideas, what’s missing is the will to execute them.” It’s wonderful to see the results of persistent effort, to celebrate success and marvel at how well something is done. What we don’t see is the mental, physical and emotional labor that comes with holding fast to a castle-in-the-sky idea until it comes to fruition. We don’t see the “will to execute” that underlies success, but we should look for it, and when we find it, we should follow that example.
Kudos to the Meeker Classic organizers, volunteers, board members, and founders. You make us proud.
