Opinions

From a young age, I have been fortunate enough to have a community of people who encouraged me to take risks, explore new ideas, and pursue every opportunity available. Their support helped shape my path and opened doors I never could have imagined.

Back when I was a whole lot younger, and quite a bit dumber, while covering the state wrestling tournament in Omaha, I decided one night during the event to go out on the town with some friends. It was a great night, but as one day turned into another, I realized that it was time I head back to my hotel and get some much-needed sleep.

On March 1st, Nebraskans celebrated 159 years of statehood. It was a moment to reflect on the people and values that built our state and the pioneer spirit that continues to define us today.

On any given evening, if you flip on the national news, you’d think the country is unraveling at the seams. Headlines scream crisis, chaos, and collapse, as if America is teetering on the brink.

Late last week, my nephew wrapped up his high school basketball career at Seward High School. I spend lots of weeknights and Saturday afternoons in the winter covering high school hoops, but over the years, from time to time, I have still managed to schedule a day or two to see my nephew battle on the hardwood.

On Sunday, I was a bit disturbed. After a grueling four days covering the state wrestling tournament in Omaha, late Saturday night I returned home, and I was ready for a long night of deep sleep.

From sunrise to sunset, Nebraska’s ag producers work to feed and fuel our world. With one in four jobs being directly related to agriculture, it is no surprise the industry is the economic engine of our state. Nowhere is this more evident than in Nebraska’s Third District, the nation’s top ag-producing district, a leader in cow-calf, corn, and ethanol production.

Had I been able to find an old cereal box last week, there is a good chance I would have gotten out my glue stick, found a pair of scissors, and gotten to work. After all, even after a couple of decades, I still spend most of my day at my desk, so why not go the distance and put together a Valentine’s Day box and attempt to get some free candy.

Drive across Nebraska on a clear evening and you’ll see why we call it “The Good Life.” Small towns where neighbors still wave. Safe communities where kids ride their bikes home at dusk. Main streets where people know your name and your word still means something.

For many Nebraskans, parenthood brings both immense joy and real challenges every day. As a father of two, I can say without hesitation that there is no greater calling in life than being a parent. While fatherhood has been one of the greatest blessings in my life, it is unrealistic to say it is not challenging.