In my world, I have met a ton of strong women. Between the tough women of the ranching world and those who have no trouble living the haggard life on the rodeo trail, I can run out of fingers and toes thinking of the rough and tumble ladies I have had the pleasure of knowing. That being said, I would like to introduce you to a phenomenal individual, who actually uses the word “phenomenal” quite a bit.
One year ago today my dear friend Molly entered surgery to have a portion of her thumb removed after undergoing other numerous other surgeries to try and save it in the weeks prior. It was traumatic, for her as well as those of us who were at practice when it happened. Accidents like this happen more than you think, but you never expect to witness someone catching a digit in their dally, and when it happens, it is something you never forget. As our coaches leaped into action a couple of us rushed to her to help get Molly to the car. Another teammate loaded up with her and headed to the E.R., alongside trying to do everything to keep her calm.
About six months later she was back to roping slowly learning a new technique to conquer the sport, basically relearning what she had built over years. She was able to red-shirt to gain another year of eligibility in the college rodeo association and now she is back on the road with the beginning of a successful college rodeo season underway. Today, a year after the removal of her thumb, Molly dominated in the team roping, doubling up on two steers in the last two days pulling checks adding a mark to the win column.
What is there to gain from this little story? Well, I sure learned a little something more about perseverance. I thought I knew more than the textbook definition. I recognized that if you hit a wall you either needed to keep hitting it until it crumbled or you had to get a tool from the Batman belt and climb over it. But Molly has shown me something more. She showed me that even at your lowest low, when everybody thinks you are down for the count, you can stand back up and triumph over your weaknesses and incapacities, even if your handicap is missing a limb.
Molly isn’t the only one, I know that, but she sure is an inspiring person and overall positive about the whole thing. I love that she can just be frustrated that she can’t quite do something like she used to and turn it into a joke. Molly is so light hearted about the struggle she has had and continues to strive for the greatness that she is destined for. Hey, Molly, like we were singing on the way home “and how do you keep your feet on the ground when you know you were born to fly?” You are an inspiration and you keep on hocking!
