My name is Bryant*, and I have spent most of my life learning how to keep going no matter what. Growing up was not easy. My mom struggled with addiction, and by the time I was ten, I was taken away and moved in with my dad. My dad and stepmom are incredible people, and I am grateful for them, but even with their support, I needed something more. By the time I turned fifteen, I knew I could not handle everything on my own, so I made a choice that changed my life. I called Boys Ranch Town (BRT).
I have been at BRT for three years now, and those years have shaped me in ways I never expected. When I first arrived, I carried a lot of anger and trauma with me. I did not really know how to deal with it, and I needed a way to cope. One of the biggest adjustments was learning to listen to people who were not my parents. At first, that was hard. I did not always understand why they were guiding me the way they were, but over time I realized something important. They were not just telling me what to do; they genuinely wanted what was best for me.
Living on campus has taught me the value of community. The best part is the relationships I have built with the other boys here. It feels like living with a bunch of brothers. We look out for each other, push each other, and grow together. Some of my favorite memories come from those friendships, but one stands out above the rest—helping someone I consider my best friend win Angus Nationals. Being part of that moment meant a lot to me, not just because of the win, but because I got to be there for someone else in a way that mattered.
Through it all, I have seen God working in my life and opening doors I never thought would be possible. I am proud of who I have become—not because I have had it easy, but because I have stayed outgoing, kept a smile on my face, and tried to make others laugh even when things were tough. I have learned that joy can be a choice, and I try to make that choice every day.
Looking ahead, I plan to attend college and major in psychology so I can understand people and help them the way I have been helped. I have also been elected to the National Junior Red Angus Board as an at-large director, which gives me the chance to show my leadership skills and represent something I care deeply about.
*Name changed to protect privacy.
Prayer Requests
Pray that I stay on the right track and focused on God, that I grow closer to Him, and that I learn to love more like Jesus. That is the kind of life I want to build—one rooted in purpose, growth, and the chance to make a difference.