Dear Cowpoke

Every story matters. We'd be honored to hear yours.

The western way of life is built on more than horses, cattle, rodeos, and ranches. It's built on the people who live it. The stories they carry, the lessons they've learned, and the experiences that shape who they are.

Some stories make us laugh.

Some make us cry.

Some remind us we're not alone.

Whether it's a lesson learned from your favorite horse, advice passed down by a grandparent, a memory from growing up in agriculture, or words of encouragement for someone who needs them, your story has the power to make a difference.

Our hope is simple:

That every person who reads a Dear Cowpoke letter walks away with something they needed. Maybe a little hope, encouragement, wisdom, or the comfort of knowing someone else has walked a similar path.

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What can I write about?

The best part! There are no rules. Write about whatever is on your heart. Add a doodle, sketch, or even your brand. It doesn't have to be perfect! 

Looking for ideas?

Some ideas include:

~ A horse you'll never forget.

~ Losing an animal that changed your life.

~ A lesson you learned the hard way.

~ Advice you'd give your younger self.

~ Words of encouragement for someone who's struggling.

~ Why agriculture or ranching means so much to you.

~ Your favorite rodeo memory.

~ A person who shaped your life.

~ A mistake that taught you something valuable.

~ A funny story that still makes you smile.

~ Faith that carried you through a difficult season.

~ Why you're proud of the western way of life.

~ What you hope the next generation never forgets.

~ Something you've never told anyone but think someone else needs to hear.

Not every letter has to be happy. Not every letter has to be sad. It just has to be real.

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How to Submit:

Handwrite your letter on any paper you'd like. You're welcome to use our printable Dear Cowpoke stationery, but it isn't required.

Begin your letter with "Dear Cowpoke,"

Complete the Dear Cowpoke Submission & Consent Form.

⬇ Download the Dear Cowpoke Submission & Consent Form (PDF)

⬇ Download the Dear Cowpoke Note Page (PDF)

Take a clear photo or scan of both your handwritten letter and completed consent form.

Email them to cowpokedcactus@gmail.com.

If you'd rather submit by mail, we'd love that too! Simply reach out to us by email or social media, and we'll provide you with our mailing address. Submissions by mail will receive a surprise in return!

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Before You Write…

Ask yourself one question:

If someone reads my letter, what do I hope they take away from it?

Maybe it's hope. Maybe it's courage. Maybe it's laughter. Maybe it's a lesson you learned the hard way. Maybe it's simply the reminder that they aren't alone. Whatever it is, write from the heart.

Someone out there may need exactly what you have to say.

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Dear Cowpoke isn't about perfect writing.

It isn't about winning buckles, having the biggest ranch, or living the most exciting life.

It's about ordinary people sharing extraordinary pieces of themselves.

Because sometimes the words we almost don't write… are the ones someone else needs to read.