Inside Ram Page: Staff Writer Ethan Mason

Hey there! I'm Ethan Mason. Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let's break the ice with a bit of humor. Imagine I started this introduction with, "Hi, I'm Ethan Mason, and I'm a Scorpio. I enjoy long walks on the beach and … wha-? What? Oh, that’s not what we’re doing? I just thought … well … okay." Honestly, I don't think that joke would crack anyone's top 10. So, let's pivot and try something different, shall we?

Now, onto the real deal. I'm Ethan Mason, and I've got some stories to share. First off, I'm proud to call Rotan, Texas my hometown. You might wonder what a small town like Rotan has to offer. Trust me, it's a place with its own unique charm. Imagine a community where everybody knows everybody and your neighbor's dog might as well be your own. This close-knit atmosphere has shaped me in more ways than one.

Moving beyond the borders of Rotan, there's a whole world of interests that define who I am. For instance, I'm not just a fan of horror movies; I'm practically a connoisseur. From classics like “Psycho” and “The Shining” to modern gems like “Terrifier,” I've explored the darkest corners of the genre. It's not merely about the scares. Horror movies are an exploration of the human psyche that feature intricate plot twists and occasional popcorn-spilling jumpscares.

My faith is a cornerstone of my life. It's not just a Sunday ritual, but a daily practice that grounds me. Philippians 4:13 is my life's mantra. This scripture serves as a constant reminder that no matter the obstacle, no matter the challenge, I have the strength to overcome it through Christ. It's been my anchor through life's highs and lows, guiding me like the North Star.

The power of prayer has been another transformative aspect of my faith. Whether it's a moment of gratitude or a plea for guidance, prayer is my direct line to God. It's a sacred space where I can lay down my burdens, celebrate my victories and seek wisdom. It's about building a relationship with the Creator, not just about asking for things.

Community is another vital part of my spiritual journey. Being part of a church allows me to be a part of a larger family that uplifts, supports and challenges me to grow in my faith. Whether it's through Bible studies, community service or just sharing life's ups and downs, this fellowship enriches my spiritual life in ways I can't quantify.

My faith also influences how I navigate the world. It's the lens through which I view challenges, opportunities and relationships. It's not about dogma or rules; it's about living a life that reflects the love, grace, and strength that God has poured into me. It's a moral compass, a source of inspiration and a well of resilience that I draw from every day.

Gaming has been a lifelong passion, starting from the tender age of three when I first picked up a PlayStation 2 controller. Those early days of navigating pixelated worlds were the beginning of an adventure that's lasted decades. From platformers to RPGs, each game has been a unique experience that has expanded my horizons.

As I grew older, my gaming interests evolved and I transitioned to the Xbox Series X. This wasn't just a switch in consoles, but a leap into a more immersive and social gaming experience. Whether it's teaming up with friends for a raid in Destiny 2 or going solo in narrative-driven games like The Last of Us, each session is a new adventure.

Gaming isn't just about the high scores or the achievements; it's about the community. Whether it's discussing strategies on Reddit or watching Twitch streams, being part of the gaming community has enriched my life. It's a space where I can geek out, learn and connect with people who share the same passion.

Golf entered my life during my high school years and it was a literal game-changer. My early swings were more like wild flails than anything resembling a golf stroke. But those awkward beginnings were the foundation of a journey that's taught me more than just how to hit a ball.

As I spent more time on the green, I realized that golf is as much a mental game as it is a physical one. It's about strategy, focus and the ability to keep your cool, even when you're stuck in a sand trap for the third time in a row. Each hole presents its own set of challenges and navigating them has taught me the value of adaptability and resilience.

Golf has also been a social experience and a way to connect with people from different walks of life. Whether it's a friendly game with buddies or a more serious tournament, the camaraderie and competition add another layer to the sport. It's not just about winning; it’s about enjoying the journey, one hole at a time.

And let's not forget the life lessons. Golf has taught me the importance of patience, precision and perseverance. Each swing is a lesson in humility, each putt a study in concentration and each round a testament to the skills I've honed over the years.

As we're talking about new experiences and challenges, a quick nod to the Ram Page is in order. This opportunity has been a pivotal experience for me. Who knows, when I make my first million, they might even get a cut—or at least a thank-you card.

Wrapping it all up, I'm just a guy from Rotan with a wide array of passions and a zest for life. I can't wait to channel all these facets of myself into my contributions at the Ram Page and I'm stoked to connect with each and every one of you on a whole new level.

And hey, ginger Capricorns on beaches named Ethan make the best "bosses," honestly.