The one thing I have always been most proud of is the ethics of most of those involved with the western lifestyle. Now yes, growing up showing horses and being the wife of a trainer, I do not walk around wearing rose colored shades, thinking that all who cross my path are carrying the truest of intentions.  I know people do things that aren’t right and I know life is not always fair. But I like to think some of that genuine being still exists in most people. This hope is probably why I find myself time and time again hurt or falling for a hefty line of bs. I cry to my husband, vent to my friends, even send a few heated twitter and facebook messages.  Then the next day, I dust myself off and continue on my way.  But lately I am feeling rather disheartened by the state of many things and oh so many people.

Below are several examples of less then ethical actions that have caught my eye, some have happened to me, people I know, or in the horse industry.

• A certain horse of the year award was given out to a very talented equine athlete. Though this horse is ridden by a trainer who is currently on probation for an offense that deserves more than a slap on the hand. Though this organization, which has a superb youth program, promotes this trainer even though he knowingly broke the rules put in place for a very good reason. What message does this send their young members? If you win, its OK to break the rules. If your from a particular family, its OK to break the rules.
• A publication contacts a website inquiring about advertising rates. The website owner replies and then is surprised to see this publication launch a website in a very similar format to their own. Also publication claims to be number one resource in this category and format. You have never published in this format before so making a claim as the leader in this area is a down right lie.  And to use that tactic to decide where to set your ad rates is backhanded and an insult to our lifestyle.
• Competitors stalking clients either via an internet business or in the barn.  Competition is part of life, I got that. In fact I thrive on it. That is if its done fairly. Fight like man even though I am a woman is my motto. Don’t be my friend then turn around and use all my contacts that I have worked really hard to develop and try to utilize them to benefit yourself. I do share and I love sharing opportunities, give me a chance, you won’t have to be sneaky about it.

Now maybe my hormones are out of whack (I am so using this pregnancy for any mistake I may make. Like forgetting my address or throwing a toddler worthy fit) but this kind of stuff makes me sad. I mean why can’t we all just go back to being good and honest people.  Really, its not that hard and you will still be successful I swear, and people will totally like you. Try it, you’ll like.  And if you need some guidance I found you a little code to follow.

Code of the West
(from “Cowboy Ethics: What Wall Street Can Learn from the Code of the West” by James P. Owen)

1. Live each day with courage
2. Take pride in your work.
3. Always finish what you start.
4. Do what has to be done.
5. Be tough, but fair.
6. When you make a promise, keep it
7. Ride for the brand.
8. Talk less and say more.
9. Remember that some things aren’t for sale
10. Know where to draw the line.

Till next time..
Danielle