I’ve written two articles recently that reflect the power of mentors and an encouraging word. One of the articles focused on the Emerging Leaders Luncheon, and the othert Clint Langley and his mentor, the late Butch Hufnagel.  

The Emerging Leaders Luncheon was held during CattleCon. I stumbled across the event while walking through the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Trade Show in Orlando. Professionals moved in speed-dating style from table to table every 12 minutes to visit with collegiates. The event, sponsored by American National CattleWomen Association, was free to college registrants.  

I interviewed various professionals, including Sam Werth, NCBA sustainability senior director and U.S. Roundtable for Sustainable Beef executive director. She did not grow up in agriculture but always had an interest in cattle. She said all she knew to do was become a vet. A professor in one of her undergrad classes inspired her about supporting the cattle industry through sustainability. She changed her major and even received her doctorate under him.  

As she visited with the students, she not only shared her journey but also encouraged them to be okay with changing their minds about their majors. She also assured them that a doctorate is not a prerequisite for success in the cattle industry. She listened and answered questions like her mentor had done for her years prior.  

Clint and Bekah Langley. Clint said he never knew he had the ability to be a good cattle buyer but through Butch Hufnagel's encouragement and guidance, he realized he did. (Photo by Cason Langley)

On April 9, I reached out to Clint Langley about his experience with the recent eclipse. His county was in the line of totality. I was curious how his cattle responded. As we visited, he began to talk about a mentor in his life, the late Butch Hufnagel.  

He shared how Butch saw something in him he didn’t even see in himself. He also shared how Butch was there for his grandfather as he was dying of cancer. Clint and his brother tried to do the same as Butch’s health was ailing. “It all went full circle,” he told me.  

It just reminded me that we never know how our words and actions impact others. For these two individuals, their mentors changed the trajectory of their lives. This reinforces the power of encouragement, a kind word, and saying something when we see potential in people.  

The late Butch Hufnagel, Paris, Texas, doctors cattle with his daughter Diane Heitschmidt, Nazareth, Texas. Clint Langley credits Butch for seeing in him what he couldn't even see in himself. (Photo by Shelley E. Huguley)

Occasionally, I receive e-mails, texts, or even phone calls from readers saying they like what I wrote, that I’m doing a great job, or, my favorite, that an article touched them. To those who have reached out, your words mean so much! Thank you for taking the time to let me know.  

Encouragement can be as simple as a quick text or email, but it can also mean walking alongside someone to help them become who God created them to be. Look for someone to speak into today. You might just change their life!