Women of the American West: Pursuing Excellence

Women of the West - Pursuing Excellence-1

The glint in her eyes mixed with the afternoon sun lulls us in before a quick shift in the saddle flaunts her message: a woman with a Cowgirl Spirit can stretch, bend, and break the rules society lays at her feet.

The whisper of the wind matches the cadence of her gallop.  Her light laughter trails off, leaving us cowboys choking in a cloud of dust. Nothing can get our hearts beating faster.

Women of the West - Pursuing Excellence-2

The power of the Women of the American West is no myth, it is a beautiful reality and I pity any man who believes otherwise.

There is an old cowboy saying, “polishing your pants on saddle leather don’t make you a rider…” with its roots in the notion expertise comes from putting in quality time to master an art.  Pursuing excellence to shine above the rest describes the Cowgirl Spirit of these women; the confidence and humility are traits rarely discovered together.

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The Cowgirl Spirit is found around the globe. A woman who utilizes her strengths with the confidence to pursue life, and the admiration of men who are secure enough to understand embracing the power of such women will move them up to a higher level.

Equality. The quality of two beings, untapped potential when repressed, becoming a powerful, united force when free.

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Freedom for women around the world, the Cowgirl Spirit has a long ride ahead, but the excellence in which they ride ensures their success.

Watching the grace of these cowgirls competing on horseback is a perfect analogy to how a woman’s power does not diminish a man’s. Rather when embraced, it magnifies them both. Barrel racing at the Pendleton Round-Up is one of the most popular and watched events, making a great rodeo even better.

The eyes of every cowboy and the world are glued to such poetry in motion…

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There is strength in equality, strength in balance, strength in the men who recognize the importance of a spirited woman by their side. True cowboys who understand such a woman opens up aspects of a man’s character that he alone is unable to grasp.

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A secure man will pursue the true quality of a woman, one with a Cowgirl Spirit, giving her room to grow as he is confident enough to understand the balance of equality will make him a better man, make his surroundings a better place.

“Equality is not a concept. It’s not something we should be striving for. It’s a necessity. Equality is like gravity….”   – Joss Whedon

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Equality of women creates vibrancy in life. Sharing strengths without insecurities, both men and women evolve and new ideas and freedoms are generated. Society thrives.

Inequality of women stifles creativity. Insecure and weak men develop brash and destructive egos. Stunted growth rots the potential of a community. There are places around the world that echo such imbalance; stagnant, repressive societies with paralyzed minds and a paralyzed future for their children.

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The desire lies in the Cowgirl Spirit, and the worthy men who seek such women to create unity. Balanced individuals grow and progress, triggering society to follow suit as well. This is the hope for the world.

It is possible, the myth of the ‘weaker sex’ was created by the innate skill women have in ciphering through the bullshit of man’s ego and pride. Lesser men fear these resilient women, exploding with ego as their insecurities grow, overcompensating and crippling those around them.

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One of the greatest feelings I’ve ever had is being half-a-world away, yet still able to draw strength from the important women in my life. Women, past and present, have helped form part of my character. Character incomplete without learning and accepting the power of equality, unlocking the heart of potential.

These women act as a mirror, reflecting strength in areas men lack. The Cowgirl Spirit brings perspective, a different view when listened to, and greater results when put into action.

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Acknowledging someone’s ability does not diminish your own, instead it can strengthen. This is achieving balance. Do not fear the power of women, instead embrace it, and embrace her.

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Women with the Cowgirl Spirit have a sensuality that is second to none.  Their confidence to give as good as they get, show an authenticity seldom seen.  An authentic woman creates the authentic man, allowing evolution to continue.

Without such women, men will never be able to grasp all life can offer. It is important to realize, in many ways, us men would remain our basic, cavemen selves.

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The silent confidence of a Woman of the West never ceases to impress and humble me. It is a supreme confidence.

Time is short. Never Stop. Never stop pursuing excellence.

The Cowgirl Spirit balances the secure, authentic Cowboy Spirit. Strength added to strength, creating opportunities that otherwise would remain hidden. Such spirit is present every year in September at the Pendleton Round-Up. Keep up the pursuit.

Let’er Buck!

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247 responses to “Women of the American West: Pursuing Excellence”

  1. Sofia Avatar

    What an amazing post, I was to be a cowgirl after seeing this! Now those are women with amazing strength and confidence. I’ll remember this whenever I need strength to carry on.

    1. Dalo 2013 Avatar

      Thank you, Sofia. With all the travel and adventures you have, you definitely have the spirit of the perfect Spanish cowgirl ~ always something alluring with such women of strength and confidence. Wish you a great day.

  2. […] via Women of the American West: Pursuing Excellence — China Sojourns Photography […]

    1. Dalo 2013 Avatar

      Thank you Rabirius.

  3. Jane Lurie Avatar

    Randall, You’ve honored women and the Cowgirl Spirit beautifully. A thoughtful and touching post with exquisite images to help tell your story. I am continually impressed by the clarity and color in your portraits and the way you capture motion so perfectly. Visual storytelling at its best.

    1. Dalo 2013 Avatar

      Thank you, Jane. It is rare for me to be able to have such scenes as the rodeo in front of me, and the time to try to create with a camera. Action photography is a big gamble for me, playing around with shutter speed, aperture or lighting usually ends up with the vast majority (if not all) photos having severe flaws…but it is nice when something comes out the way I’d hoped, it tells a story. Wish you a great day.

  4. Writing to Freedom Avatar

    Wow Randall! This is a beautifully articulated reminder of the power of women and feminine energy. And the importance of accepting, uniting and empowering men and women as partners to rise higher. Great photos too!
    Giddy up!

    1. Dalo 2013 Avatar

      Thanks Brad, there is power in numbers when two sides decide to work as one. The “female – male” tandem potential can be life changing, even though it can also be a challenge as well, speaking of the “Venusian – Martian” problem mainly 🙂

      1. Writing to Freedom Avatar

        Agreed Randall, and I’ve experienced some of those extraterrestial challenges! 🙂

  5. Alok Singhal Avatar

    Such a powerful message. Men who help the society are those whole help women grow…equality is a basic right and has to be held above anything else. Great read!

    1. Dalo 2013 Avatar

      So true, it seems powerful societies around the world and in history, have at its core the tenant of equality. Women play an important role throughout life, allowing creativity to thrive. Thank you very much Alok.

  6. Mazigrace Avatar

    Amazing story in pictures and word. Thanks for sharing this post of empowering women.

    1. Dalo 2013 Avatar

      Thank you Mazigrace ~

  7. LadyBlueRose's Thoughts Into Words Avatar
    LadyBlueRose’s Thoughts Into Words

    I like your thoughts and your photographs are breathtaking in capturing the energy of the Spirit
    Take Care…You Matter…
    maryrose

    1. Dalo 2013 Avatar

      Thank you, Maryrose. These were great scenes to shoot.

  8. danaiana Avatar

    What a joy it is to open your posts! Fascinating, as always!

    1. Dalo 2013 Avatar

      Very nice compliment Dana ~ this one was fun to put together.

      1. danaiana Avatar

        I was captivated by the magic of your words and photos!
        Best wishes!

  9. JohnAmes Avatar
    JohnAmes

    My god do you take great pictures sir. You’re no slouch of a writer either. But a great mystery remains, why the hell you are in China?

    1. Dalo 2013 Avatar

      Thank you very much, John. The few days I was able to shoot the Round-Up was pretty great, the people fascinating and friendly which made the “work” of shooting so enjoyable (a focus to be creative while shooting)…and made putting together this post much fun. As for China…there have been a few people with that exact question 🙂 Wish you a great remainder of the week.

  10. Poli Impelli Avatar

    Powerful message! Excellent, and thanks!

    1. Dalo 2013 Avatar

      A message worth repeating many times, thank you very much Poli ~ enjoy the rest of the week.

      1. Poli Impelli Avatar

        Thanks to YOU for your words. 🙂

  11. cindy knoke Avatar

    Oh I love these, message and captures. I grew up riding so it brings back happy memories of summers in Wyomming~

    1. Dalo 2013 Avatar

      Wyoming is such a beautiful place ~ perfect for riding and there’ve been more than a few great cowboys/girls that all it home, thank you Cindy.

  12. Bama Avatar

    “Equality. The quality of two beings, untapped potential when repressed, becoming a powerful, united force when free.” Oh how I so agree with that statement. Unfortunately around the world a lot of women are still oppressed. Some fight the oppression, but some succumb to it and embrace it as part of their identity, of what they should be. Reading and traveling will help them see that when women are free they sure can conquer the world. Yet another beautifully written post, Randall!

    1. Dalo 2013 Avatar

      You put it very well Bama, many times the environment one lives defines who they become (it becomes easier to embrace negatives). Travel, and opening up of societies can help as women (and men as well) can see all the untapped potential and possibilities when freedoms are true and working together can help us evolve. Thanks Bama.

  13. YellowCable Avatar

    Such a powerful message about equality between women and men. The pictures of cowgirls riding horses are so dynamic. Their motion are so real or 3D like effect that you feel they are coming out of the page. This is incredible illustration of men strong counter part – women! A great post.

    I hope one day, the inequality between genders was just part of human history.

    1. Dalo 2013 Avatar

      Thank you, I think what you say about the photos of the cowgirls being so dynamic is similar to the way they affect society as well. Women add a new, dynamic dimension to male-dominated societies ~ new thoughts, ideas and overall respect for progress. A good thing, and it will be a great day when inequalities are no longer present.

  14. Mary Tang Avatar

    Love the cowgirls’ spirit, skills and courage! Thank you for acknowledging them with your pictures and your words.

    1. Dalo 2013 Avatar

      Thank you Mary, everywhere I’ve traveled there is this cowboy spirit within the women I’ve met ~ they’re out making the world a better place.

  15. Maverick ~ Avatar

    Your action shots are amazing and I agree, girls rule. 🙂

    1. Dalo 2013 Avatar

      Yes, they do rule ~ thanks Maverick.

  16. daveply Avatar

    Potent stuff, once again. And amazing shots, especially the panning shots where you still got clear images. I’ve never been to the Pendleton Round-Up, and haven’t seen the level of barrel riding your pictures suggest. Guess I should stop being such a city boy and check it out.

    1. Dalo 2013 Avatar

      The Pendleton Round-Up is truly a treat ~ great people, celebrating the ending of summer and of course the talents of the men and women, as well as their beautiful horses. Something every city boy and girl should check out at least once in their lives 🙂 You’d love it. Thanks Dave!

  17. Eliza Waters Avatar

    Incredible stop-action shots, Randall, and an inspiring and hopeful message.

    1. Dalo 2013 Avatar

      Thank you very much Eliza ~ a hopeful, global message that seems to be making progress.

  18. BroadBlogs Avatar

    Your photography reveals so much emotion — and here, action! It’s so great to see this chronicle of Women of the West!

    1. Dalo 2013 Avatar

      Thank you very much Georgia, there was so much action/courage with their riding – very inspirational.

  19. T Ibara Photo Avatar

    Amazing post. And I so appreciate there are gentleman like yourself ( and my hubby :)) in this world. As always, your photo essays never cease to amaze.

    1. Dalo 2013 Avatar

      Ha, ha ~ very nice to be called a gentleman, it will give my sisters and nieces a good laugh 🙂 Wish you a great ending to your summer, thank you Takami.

  20. Angeline M Avatar

    Incredibly fantastic post, Randall. To hear a man raise women up like this says so much about the women past and present in your life, and the strength they’ve shown you and imparted to you. Your photography is stunning.

    1. Dalo 2013 Avatar

      Thanks Angeline, it was great to get out and shoot these women at their peak performance. This post is, in a sense, a great tribute to the strong women in my life, they impact me every day. I didn’t really think about it, but you are right.

  21. Copper Cranes Avatar

    Randall, a stunning presentation. Your photographs are absolutely amazing and I thoroughly enjoyed reading your thoughts on, Women of the West, and Cowgirl Spirit. Wishing you well. ~ Mia

    1. Dalo 2013 Avatar

      Thank you Mia, one of the more enjoyable shoots I’ve had ~ great action and great people. Wish you a wonderful day.

      1. Copper Cranes Avatar

        You’re welcome Randall. Thank you kindly for the wishes, you too.

  22. twobrownfeet Avatar
    twobrownfeet

    You weave your words with your photography in perfect sync, Randall. You’ve captured some incredibly strong women there. Although, I often wonder if equality and strength can truly co-exist. And if yes, where does that leave weakness? Perhaps, equality means accepting everyone the way the are, strong or weak, there’s a place for all. 🙂

    1. Dalo 2013 Avatar

      A wonderful comment, thank you. I think you are right in alluding to weaknesses are always with us ~ but we get better at adjusting and making them stronger, after all, weaknesses are often just seen weak in comparison to our strengths. The benefit of equality is that overall we get stronger; weakness can be reduced/improved and strengths as well. And yes, agree fully that there is a place for us all. Cheers to a great remainder of the week.

  23. kaushik55 Avatar
    kaushik55

    The photos, as usual are amazing! I loved that blur of speed in the action photos. It must have been difficult to “create” that blur in a modern camera where the shutter speed is very fast?

    1. Dalo 2013 Avatar

      Thank you, shooting action offers many different ways to be creative. For this shoot, I used two cameras (a full-frame and a 1.6 crop with very high burst mode), different lens and then most important: pre-programmed settings on my camera – where I can lock in settings I want such as very low shutter speeds, and aperture to create a different feel within a photograph. Add to this, panning with slow shutter speeds and motion is created ~ albeit, I can walk away from a shot without one decent shot because of blur and focus issues 🙂 Part of the gamble of creativity.

  24. Gunta Avatar

    Fantastic post. All the images were great, but that last one was poetry in motion. A very nice tribute to the cowgirls at the RoundUp.

    1. Dalo 2013 Avatar

      The last shot ended up showering me with dirt and pebbles, bounced one right off my lens 😱 I do agree, this is a great tribute to these amazing ladies, and also to the cowgirl spirit that exists around the globe. Cheers to a great remainder of the week Gunta, thank you.

      1. Gunta Avatar

        Hope the lens wasn’t damaged, but otherwise the shot was well worth the dust shower!

  25. LaVagabonde Avatar
    LaVagabonde

    A gorgeous tribute. The intense confidence shines through these photos. Right out of high school, one of my aunts took off for the West to be a cowgirl. She and her husband have lived the life for decades – through very hard times and now, finally, good. I’ve always admired her resilience and spirit.

    1. Dalo 2013 Avatar

      There is something special about choosing a road less traveled, taking off and making a good life with your decision. For women, I think the level of difficulty is even greater because of what seems to be a greater number of challenges many just blatant inequality. Thank you Julie, this tribute was fun to put together.

  26. sedge808 Avatar

    amazing photo

    1. Dalo 2013 Avatar

      Thank you G.,

  27. Healing Grief Avatar

    They make horseriding look like car racing! Great action shots. Indeed a unique group of gifted women. A wonderful tribute to them Randall.

    1. Dalo 2013 Avatar

      It is something to see how horse and rider flow together at high speeds ~ a merging of talent and strengths. Thank you Karen.

  28. ShethP Avatar
    ShethP

    Such an enrapturing article with equally vibrant photographs. I appreciated the view of one’s own ability not being diminished by that of others’ and how you put that forth. Insightful read! 🙂

    1. Dalo 2013 Avatar

      Thank you Sheth. In all areas of life, it seems that if people can understand that the ability/power of another does not dimish but rather enhances their own ability/power, they’ve just gotten better. An important part for our own personal evolution.

      1. ShethP Avatar
        ShethP

        Yes, very true. 🙂

  29. Ali Isaac Avatar
    Ali Isaac

    I hope that more men wake up to feel the same way you do about ‘the fairer sex’. It would make a world of difference, it really would. And not just for women.

    1. Dalo 2013 Avatar

      I think there are an increasing number of men who realize equality brings a whole new strength to communities/society. Agree fully it would make a difference and benefit all. Thanks Ali.

  30. Mary Smith Avatar

    As always, a post to give us much to think about and great photography to admire.

    1. Dalo 2013 Avatar

      Thank you very much Mary ~

    1. Dalo 2013 Avatar

      Thank you Derrick.

  31. Mabel Kwong Avatar

    Equality, a sensitive topic that you presented with such elegance through both your prose and photography. Interesting to hear about the Cowgirl Spirit, and so lovely to see women riding proudly in the Pendleton Round-Up. I’m guessing both men and women participate each year, and it must be such a welcoming place.

    “Acknowledging someone’s ability does not diminish your own, instead it can strengthen.” I so agree with this. We are all unique, and we can’t be the master of all trades – it would take an eternity for us to be excellent at everything there is to do. So it only makes sense to turn to the person next to us, and with a smile or a handshake, start a conversation and work things out together. Doesn’t matter if you are man, woman, girl, boy or anything in between – skills are learnt and not the product of where we are from.

    I grew up in a culture where women always played second fiddle to men: women take care of the house and not being the breadwinner, women mainly stepping into support roles if they do decide to work, and the man would naturally be the designated driver. In some societies this is still the case. We need more men to be open-minded in order for equality to happen, and at the same time women should also not be afraid to speak out and do what they want to do. It is a two-way street towards achieving equality.

    Always enjoy your posts, Randall. Hope summer has treated you well 🙂

    1. Dalo 2013 Avatar

      A wonderful compliment Mabel, thank you. The elegance of the subject matter was something to see and experience. Equality can be a very difficult and divisive topic, in part because people (men) will believe they have to ‘give up’ some power in creating a more level playing field. They look at it as a zero-sum game, instead of understanding that more value will actually be created with equality and an overall benefit. Acknowledging there is something to be learned from others is valuable.

      The culture around Asia has always confused me, a mix of very strong and ambitious women in business/life and then another segment that seems to have bought into their role as a supporter. Hong Kong was interesting, as many women from around the globe love Hong Kong as they have the freedom in business to pursue what they wish…and the atmosphere is conducive to equality. Then, of course, there are areas where women have almost zero say in how they structure their lives. Wish you well, and enjoy the beginning of spring Down Under!

      1. Mabel Kwong Avatar

        The subject of equality in Asia is such a debatable realm of discussion. It’s a topic I’ve been thinking about revisiting on my blog lately. You are right – in Asia some women are extremely driven to do exactly what they set their mind to and others are just happy to play second fiddle. I like to think equality is letting each other do what they want, give opportunities to each other along the way. Happy Autumn, Randall. Your favourite season 🙂

      2. Dalo 2013 Avatar

        You make such a good point, the freedom of equality allows for women (and everyone) to choose the path they want: it may be an ambitious leader of industry/politics or one of the most difficult roads of all, mother and housewife. Thank you Mabel, very much looking forward to autumn ~ and making the last quarter of the year the best 🙂

  32. The Passion Dew Avatar

    Not only men can horse, but also women. Looked at how the cowgirls riding horses, crossed the border. Because if men can do it, women too. I love it 🙂 ❤ Stunning photo shot Rendy. Wish you have a great days

    1. Dalo 2013 Avatar

      Yes, what is so impressive is the incredible relationship with the horse and rider ~ and these women were really riding as one with their horses: trust, commitment, and courage. They do the same in life. Wish you well DellaAnna, enjoy the day.

      1. The Passion Dew Avatar

        Indeed,they are really strong. Thank youi so much Randy 🙂

  33. Tina Schell Avatar

    Wonderful As always Randall😊. I find myself wondering about the women in your life that you should have such a healthy respect for women in general. They must be quite something. I also wonder about your thoughts on the women in your second home, HK, where traditionally women have been subservient. Do you see a major contrast between the two worlds of women? As for this particular post, I always admire both your writing and your photography, but that final shot of this set stands alone. Spectacular. Thanks for the visual and thought-provoking treat.

    1. Dalo 2013 Avatar

      Thank you Tina, it does seem that I’ve been blessed with some pretty terrific women in my life ~ starts with Mom, of course, and goes from there. HK is a bit of an anomaly in Asia, as it is a great city for equality – at least in the sense that economically there are opportunities. Several of my good friends from other areas of Asia have said they will stay in HK rather than return home and take on a secondary/subservient role. There is not much contrast actually between women of the West vs. East, except I think the number of paths/activities available in the USA leads to a greater sense of confidence with women, more rounded perhaps.

  34. Bun Karyudo Avatar

    Well, these cowgirls certainly reflect strength in the areas I lack. There is no way I could stay on a horse at the kind of angles captured in your photographs without ropes, chains and several tubs of superglue. As ever, I enjoyed both the pictures and the words accompanying them. I think you have a real talent for capturing people in motion. Some of these photographs leave me breathless just looking at them.

    1. Dalo 2013 Avatar

      Ha, I could not agree more as the agility these women possess on horseback I could never imagine. Thank you very much Bun, and wish you a great end to the final days of summer.

      1. Bun Karyudo Avatar

        Thank you and you too. I hope it’s fun for you! 🙂

  35. Chillbrook Avatar

    Superb photographs Randal and your writing as ever, a real pleasure to read. Superb post!

    1. Dalo 2013 Avatar

      Thank you Adrian ~ a topic that was well worth investing time shooting and learning. Cheers ~

  36. mariner2mother Avatar

    Not only beautifully captured photos, but beautifully said as well. You captured the strength and grace of both the horses and the cowgirl riders in command. There isn’t anyone much more attractive then someone who stands in their own authenticity.

    1. Dalo 2013 Avatar

      You say it very well, “there isn’t anyone much more attractive than someone who stands in their own authenticity…” It is easy to gain respect for someone who works hards and do their best to be true to themselves, especially in a world that works hard to make them into something else. Thank you!

  37. balroop2013 Avatar

    “A secure man will pursue the true quality of a woman.”…How true! Thank you Randall for this beautiful tribute to the power of women, who are still struggling for their basic rights in many parts of this globe.
    Your fantastic images speak more than your philosophical thoughts and both make a lethal combination, more intoxicating than any other substance. As always, I have spent lovely moments here and will cherish them, waiting for your next post. Have a wonderful week and keep inspiring. 🙂

    1. Dalo 2013 Avatar

      Thank you Balroop, and there is nothing quite like the true quality of people all over the globe. For those countries and communities around the global that preach repression is very sad to see: weak men in political power who feel threatened…and respond through repression. Insecure men throw away the potential of children and young minds. At some level, I believe these men do understand to be really great they need to accept equality but are too weak/insecure to promote such thought.

      Wish you a great end to the week, and to summer as well 🙂

  38. cazdawnie Avatar

    Exquisite. Beautifully eloquent. I love seeing someone acknowledge the need for equality, the recognition of true strength in being a woman and a man, the shattering of gender norms done so unabashedly… Moments like this make me realise there is still good in those who solidly believe in equality. It takes a great deal of security in anyone to not put people down for their own faux greatness – which is why I am so happy to see security in your words and what you believe in.
    During this summer, I have finally put to practice what I preached – that no one else should make me feel smaller just so their fragile egos can be catered to; no one, no matter what love one feels – should degrade me, own me, or ever make me question my worth.
    I understood all of that long before I engaged with the wrong people, but it is eye-opening to see how many boys who’d slander the other sex, have twisted ideas of masculinity/ femininity (social norm) and would sooner prove themselves to be “masculine” than think about how poisoned they are by gender norms or how insulting they can be.
    I believe in being upheld by other artists as an artist, but I also believe in being supported and supporting those who stand by true strength. As always, grateful to have found you on the blogosphere, there’s still so much I wish to learn from you and talk to you about. Again, can’t be happier to discover the ripples your post is causing, the dialogue this leads to makes me burst with hope.

    1. Dalo 2013 Avatar

      Wonderful comment Carren ~ it seems there is a lot more awareness of equality around the world, with its roots in places where the standard of living is quite high (US and HK being two). Still, there exists much bias and usually with those with little sense of self, who act out in ways they expect society to respond (fulfilling a stereotype) instead of what is right, just one of those things that will take a while for society to adjust to (be it sexism, racism, etc…). The best, I believe, is to show some empathy and understanding while not backing down in what you believe in. It has been great to connect via the blogosphere ~ a bit of 缘分. Wish you a great end to the summer!

  39. doar nicole Avatar

    Such a delightful post, both beauty and message! So true, it is only that fine subtle balance between the things that make men and women alike and the aspects that make them so splendidly different, that can lead to “unlocking the heart of potential” in a harmonious way, in each and every one of us, certainly. And the photos… impressive, the cute little girl is a joy to look at, so playful, makes one feel hopeful and positive. Wishing you well, Dalo, have a wonderful autumn. 🙂

    1. Dalo 2013 Avatar

      Thank you Nicole, I think the beauty of these women are reflective of such spirit around the world: their courage, confidence, and freedom. Pieces that match up perfect and harmoniously with men. The cute little girl was definitely in her element this day, she is the daughter of a friend of mine, and one day she will likely be in this arena as well ~ with amazing rodeo ties throughout the family tree 🙂 Wish you a great autumn up ahead as well, take care.

  40. vivachange77 Avatar

    Amazing pictures of the cowgirls and their horses defying gravity! Thanks for your powerful tribute to women. ❤

    1. Dalo 2013 Avatar

      Thank you ~ the level of skill and cooperation between these women and their horses was a sight to see.

  41. Tiny Avatar

    Such a powerful message, Randall. A high-spirited tribute to women and an urgent call for working tirelessly until we achieve equality. Stunning photos too, as always 🙂

    1. Dalo 2013 Avatar

      It seems as though women have been working tirelessly for so long for equality, and things seem to be tipping in their favor…with momentum expanding globally. Thank you very much Tiny.

  42. neihtn2012 Avatar

    This is such an inspiring post with wonderful images, so typical of your keen eyes and talent with the written word!

    1. Dalo 2013 Avatar

      Having access to be able to watch and shoot these women was an inspiring event, added fuel to the photography and writing 🙂 Thanks Hien ~

  43. Christy B Avatar

    Reblogged this on When Women Inspire and commented:
    Too great not to share! This is Dalo’s amazing tribute to the Cowgirl Spirit. As Dalo explains (with fabulous photos to accompany the words), cowgirl spirit refers to “a woman who utilizes her strengths with the confidence to pursue life, and the admiration of men who are secure enough to understand embracing the power of such women will move them up to a higher level.”

    ~Cheers to that!

    xx
    Christy

    1. Dalo 2013 Avatar

      Wonderful Christy, thank you very much for the reblog. There is nothing quite as attractive as seeing someone pursue life with confidence and courage ~ and wishing you continued success Christy. Cheers!

  44. Julie@frogpondfarm Avatar

    If you were near I’d give you a huge hug! Thank you for such a wonderful post .. Your way with words is exquisite.
    Acknowledging someone’s ability does not diminish your own, instead it can strengthen. There is much wisdom in this sentence, as there is in this post. Wonderful images .. go girls!

    1. Dalo 2013 Avatar

      I’m tempted to catch a flight out right now 🙂 The countryside life especially, I believe, is where recognizing the strength of women are absolutely vital to success ~ I think this is where a lot of the wisdom from this sentence is derived. I finished a book about women in the 1800s traveling on wagon trains to the western part of the USA, and how they were vital to the success of men. They had to be strong, and the men needed such spirit. These women were the first to win the right to vote, to hold public office, to divorce… The defining moment of equality in the states 🙂 Wish you a great remainder of the week Julie!

  45. Berni Avatar

    This is old stuff; for those who believe in the ways of flesh.
    Women should never strive to be equal to men.
    They are better.
    But their power is not in the ways of the flesh.

    1. Dalo 2013 Avatar

      We definitely agree on the most important topic: women are better. Perhaps it is their tendency to focus beyond the “biology” ~ but that is another topic/debate deserving of more than a sentence or two. It may be old stuff, but unfortunately too many just can’t grasp the idea of equality in many areas of human relations. Thank you Berni, wish you well.

  46. davecenker Avatar

    Too many people in this world embrace the scarcity mentality – that there’s only so much success and happiness to go around. Those individuals think that they need to steal a piece of the pie from someone else to secure their “prize”. The only thing they are securing is their own insecurity. Beautifully powerful message accompanied by your stellar photographic prowess as well. Very motivating and inspiring, Randall, thank you for sharing!

    1. Dalo 2013 Avatar

      The scarcity mentality ~ yes, this is so true. You say it well Dave, this zero-sum game where there is “a winner and loser” is a shallow way to live, without hope for evolution or improvement. Thank you Dave, and being out and allowed to shoot these amazing women was an incredible experience. Cheers.

  47. Otto von Münchow Avatar

    Extraordinary photos, Randall. Full of joy and intensity and pride and spirit. The words are food for thoughts. Unfortunately woman too many places aren’t treated as with this kind of respect.

    1. Dalo 2013 Avatar

      Great point, there was great joy throughout all the photos ~ the collaboration between cowgirl and horse, and also the respect of the cowboys and men who watched with such admiration. People were all happy and celebratory. There are too many places where such freedom is not yet allowed…but it is coming 🙂 Cheers, and thanks Otto for your thoughts.

  48. Eddie Two Hawks Avatar

    Action packed photos and heartfelt story left me nearly breathless and more informed.
    Thanks for this great armchair rodeo tour

    1. Dalo 2013 Avatar

      Wonderful comment Eddie ~ nothing quite like a rider and horse working together to teach us a thing or two about the world. Thank you and wishing you a happy few more days of summer ~

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