"Tennessee 4-H: Wired for Success"
Rachel Cross, Scott County

         One of the slang definitions of “wired” is to be “very stimulated or excited, as from a stimulant or a rush of adrenaline.” From its inception in the early 1900’s, Tennessee 4-H has been “stimulating” young people to become capable and involved citizens, not just in their respective communities and states, but also in their nation. Local 4-H clubs have provided a valuable and vital training ground for the leadership of tomorrow as each new generation of Tennesseans has been encouraged to gain knowledge, develop life skills, and gain hands-on leadership experience. Touching the lives of over 4 million young people, Tennessee 4-H has also helped to “excite” our nation’s youth to develop a solid work ethic through hands-on projects, and encouraged the development of solid moral values through the principles espoused by the local clubs.

         Another slang definition of “wired” means “having numerous influential connections, as with high-ranking members of an organization.” Local 4-H clubs have boasted such famous members as former Vice-president Al Gore, singers Dolly Parton and Faith Hill, and, more importantly, my Mom and Dad. How impressive is that! The Tennessee 4-H Congress helps us to be “wired” by developing the life skill of responsible citizenship. It encourages a future generation of community leaders not only to vote, but to participate in their government in a way that would not otherwise be possible. Allowing the youth of our state to literally roam the “halls of power” side by side with our Senators and Representatives is an amazing privilege and a distinct honor for the participants of 4-H Congress.

         My last definition of “wired” means “to be reinforced or supported by wires.” This reminds me of the dictates of the 4-H pledge itself: “I pledge my Head to clearer thinking, my Heart to greater loyalty, my Hands to larger service, and my Health to better living for my club, my community, my country, and my world.” This pledge, first adopted in 1927, has provided “reinforcement” to the 4-H member and “support” to the community for over eighty years, and continues to provide “reinforcement and support” to a whole new generation of 4-H’ers today.

         Yes, with everything Tennessee 4-H has going for it, it’s very easy to see why Tennessee 4-H is “Wired for Success!”