Copyright 1993 - Danny Wayne Dutton
DUE RESPECT
About some old cowboys
I'd care to speak
'Cause some say they're gone
Their legends too weak
But I've known a few
Whose mark has been made
Some are still workin'
Tho their dues have been paid
They've devoted their lives
To work without thanks
Short pay and long winters
They give all it takes
And their tack was well-oiled
Their boots resoled
Their adventures in toil
Their stories still told
Thru the brush and the breaks
Thru feed alleys and pens
On good horses well-trained
Good means to good ends
Known for their mischief
And their experience sought
Watched by the young
The young men that they've taught
Beyond cocky and boldness
On sureness they thrived
They aren't often wrong
That's how they survived
Most of them loners
Few words do they use
Their deeds are their statements
Their statements profuse
In God do they trust
To nature they tend
Their allegiance is lasting
All beast are their friend
And, tho fences are closer
Their world full of sound
Tho pick-ups are common
And their closer to town
They're still the top hands
Wherever they are
In the feedlots, on ranches
Their impression goes far
Y'see, it's these old cowboys
Who promise tomorrow
With wisdom and knowledge
For young cowmen to borrow
In blood and in sweat
And frustration and tears
They've built up a lifestyle
That lives thru the years
They've laughed and they've sang
And created and preserved
A whole kind of heritage
And respect well deserved
Tho all is not glamour
And most don't get wealthy
They live life to its fullest
In a legend that's healthy
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