Earlier this year, I invested $6,500 in a registered Black Angus bull, hoping he would enhance the genetics of my small herd and prove to be a long-term asset. For the first few weeks, though, he seemed far more interested in serene grazing than showing any enthusiasm for his new responsibilities. While the rest of the herd followed their usual rhythm, he drifted through the pasture with quiet ease. His calm nature was admirable, but I couldn’t help questioning whether I had made a wise investment when he showed little initiative in the role he was meant to fill.
Unsure what to make of his laid-back behavior, I contacted the local veterinarian for guidance. After a thorough examination, the vet confirmed that the bull was in excellent health—simply a bit young and slower to mature than I had anticipated. To support his development, he provided a small regimen of supplements and suggested administering them daily. According to him, the added nutrients would help boost the bull’s energy and encourage overall growth, giving him the nudge he needed to engage more actively with the herd.
The results were almost immediate. Within a couple of days, the bull began moving with newfound confidence, interacting more naturally with the cattle and stepping into the role I had hoped he would embrace. His shift in energy made it clear that he hadn’t lacked instinct—just a bit of nutritional support. Watching him come into his own brought a sense of relief and renewed optimism about the investment I had once doubted.
Then came the twist I never expected. Feeling spirited and curious, he managed to slip through a weak spot in the fence and wander onto my neighbor’s property, mingling with their cattle as though he owned the place. Fortunately, my neighbor saw the humor in the situation, and we fixed the fence while sharing a laugh. Standing there, I realized how quickly uncertainty had turned into success. Farming has a way of teaching you that with patience, care, and a little encouragement, things often work out better than you could have planned.