Gavin Rhode

In life, true strength often comes from embracing vulnerability, even when it feels like everything is falling apart. Two years ago, I learned this lesson the hard way. During a football game, I took a helmet to the back of my knee, dislocating my tibia and tearing both my ACL and lateral meniscus. What followed was a painful journey of physical and emotional recovery where I discovered strength doesn’t come from avoiding vulnerability, it comes from facing it head on.

The road to recovery wasn’t easy. For months, I endured countless hours of physical therapy, pushing through pain, frustration and self-doubt. My body wasn’t cooperating, and I often found myself questioning whether I would ever be able to return to the field. But in those moments of struggle, I realized overcoming obstacles isn’t just about raw physical strength, it’s about resilience, determination and accepting help when needed.

As an FFA member, we understand hard work and perseverance are essential to overcoming any challenge. Agriculture has a rich history of overcoming adversity, from the struggles farmers faced during the Dust Bowl to the modern-day challenges of maintaining a farm or ranch. Those who persevered through these hardships didn’t shy away from vulnerability, they leaned into it, drawing strength from their community and their determination to keep going.

In the same way, I’ve learned that life’s struggles are not something to fear or avoid. Instead, they are opportunities to grow, improve and become stronger. It’s in facing these challenges, being vulnerable and pushing forward that we truly find our strength.

​Think back on some of the most nostalgic memories you have from your childhood. Maybe you are thinking of roller skating parties, visiting the zoo or buying a freezing cold ice cream sandwich from everyone’s favorite Sweet Treat Truck. Now for me … my memory is a little bit different. Let me set the stage for you a little bit. 

It is a steaming hot day right in the middle of July. People are walking around, stressed out of their minds, covered in sweat and hoping for the best. I can still remember the sounds, smells and noises of that day. Right at this moment, reality officially sets in. I am about to walk into the show ring for the very first time. This was a moment my family and I had been looking forward to for years! Now, time for the buzzkill. Unfortunately it was just peewee showmanship at the Clinton County Fair and it was just my brother’s Hereford heifer, Tess. However, this is still a moment that will stick out to me for the rest of my life. Getting the chance to officially walk in that ring and be awarded with my trophy made me the happiest boy in the world. That trophy is still on display in my room to this day. 

Fast forward 12 long years, I am now showing a string full of cattle and pigs, while taking them all over the country to compete at the highest level. I’m making tons of memories each and every day and meeting new people everywhere I go. The one thing that has stayed constant throughout my entire experience – I still go back and show at the Clinton County Fair each and every year. Getting the opportunity to continue on my own legacy at the county fair is awesome. Instead of participating in peewee showmanship this year, I exhibited the Grand Champion heifer and bull, as well as Reserve Champion market barrow. I get to set the example to the younger generation now, that mentors set for me long ago. Missouri FFA, never forget where you started. Most importantly, never lose the peewee spirit.