This poem will be featured on the 2015 Western Horseman Calendar. As I recite it I think about how much better this nation would be if all children could be raised on a ranch. But I know that is impossible. It also reminds me of those women that have had the privilege to be ranch wives and raise their kiddos this way. Deanna Dickinson McCall, Trinity Seely, Jessica Hedges and all the rest of you ranch gals, heres to you! The Investment by Teresa Burleson Hes a rowdy 6 year old and his mamas pride and joy. He looks just like his daddy did when he was a little boy. His hat sits low, atop his ears and the brims a little bent. Beneath it are brown eyes, freckled face and a nose that is skint. His shirt is buttoned to the top like his daddy does. Theres a trophy buckle at his waist and a pair of leather gloves. He wears hand-me-down boots with tall tops that are blue. His jeans are tucked inside em like the other punchers do. He sure looks like a cowboy and thats what he wants to be. But there is so much more to him than the clothes that you see. Hes already learning honor and treats his elders with respect. Its a pride in what he stands for and just what mom expects. Hes not impressed by celebrities who have fortune and fame. His daddy is his hero and he proudly shares his name. He helps with the spring works and again at the fall gathers. He looks forward to the fun and hes learnin what matters. When hes bigger hell flank em and stretch em out when they brand. For now, he will do what he can and hell try to make a hand. Growing up a ranch kid teaches the value of work and play. His parents watch with pride as he takes up the cowboy way. They know you have to let em try and let em have a turn, And if you dont take em with you they will never learn. He is cherished with a gentle love that is kind and firm, And when needed, disciplined with a hand that is stern. This little boy is an investment in a heritage and tradition. To teach a child the way they should go is a God-given commission. Now, he may choose a different path than the one his parents sought, But he will always have the ethics and the values hes been taught. Right now, he is only 6 years old but one day hell understand, Its not all about being a cowboy, its about being a good man.
Posted on: Thu, 10 Jul 2014 16:49:41 +0000
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