It is possible that today one
has to be even more fiercely independent than in past generations
because now there are more alternatives and easier ways to make
money. Past generations had fewer choices and therefore, fewer
temptations to leave. Elmer had never seen much of the world beyond
Jaffray and had no desire to leave.
The last two generations have been "outside" but have
decided to return home. "When I went away to school or worked
in the city," said Al, "it was always easy to get into
the ranch work when I came back. But it got harder to go back
to the city. That was where the money was unless you wanted to
be a logger or miner. I guess I finally made the decision that
I didn't need to be rich." Gordon agrees, "I'm happy
poor".
