My friend and I were looking for a quiet place to eat. We’d sold the cows and grabbed our check. Our day was near complete.
We’d driven my old Chevy ‘bout two hundred miles from home. We hadn’t seen a bath and neither head had used a comb.
A hint of cow manure was rising up from both our boots. We fit the picture of two worn-out, hungry cowboy coots.
We both preferred The Coffee Shop, at home so far away. But we settled for a fancy inn that advertised “Buffet.”
The maître d’ looked down on us. Said, “Move along, old men.” His voice spoke with authority so moving was our plan.
But our legs were sore and swollen and they showed the years of wear. We sure don’t break no record speed when using old Shank’s Mare.
I looked the young man straight ahead, then gave him my stink-eye. I said, “We don’t mean much to you and think I know just why.
“You’re primping in a new blue suit. Your beak at 45. No one has taught you manners, yet respect is still alive.
“So, let this old man tell you just how much you oughta know. And maybe if you’re smart enough you’ll use this chance to grow.
“The beef, which you’ve been serving here, is more than chunks of meat. Before they were a tenderloin, they walked on all four feet.
“My friend and I raise beef, you know. Try kicking that about. I doubt you know that cows eat hay and where the crap comes out.
“The spuds you place beside the meat are usually mashed or fried. They’re grown by men who work the land and raise their crops with pride.
“This job you now rely on, son, depends on men like us. Not to mention all the food you eat. Consider that a plus!
“So, when you call us old men, youngster, do it with a smile. And keep your fingers crossed that we’ll be raising beef awhile.
“I’m sorry that our boots are kinda grungy, in a way. But tonight we’ll both be dining at your fancy food buffet.”
– Bryce Angell
Bryce Angell – The outdoors has always been a large part of my life. My father was an outfitter and guide for 35 years and I was there to shoe and care for the horses and help him do the cooking. We took many great trips into the Yellowstone area. Even now that I’m older, we still ride into the Tetons, Yellowstone and surrounding areas. My poems are mostly of personal experience. I am now retired and enjoying life to the fullest. I plan to do more riding and writing.
