Poetry Memories and Melodies

8 Seconds

Eight seconds can seem like forever,
man you’re just barely holding on.
Setting there wondering whether,
you’ll make another spin, or be gone.

Then, the eight seconds is over,
the time is up and ride is done.
The judges are marking the points,
and announcers are hollerin out who won.

Some of the things the judges look for,
and some that they look at.
Are, were you in control of the situation,
did the animal perform and how well on its back you sat.

I know what you are thinking, I’m not a rodeo fan,
so how does this apply to me.
Well, this applies to every women, child and man,
just wait a second and you’ll see.

There are lil’ eight second rides in every ones life,
things we face every day.
They test our strength, our nerve,
and willingness to stay.

For some it may be the addiction,
be it the bottle or the pill.
This animal is only beat,
by the power of the will.

For others it might be,
they’re trying to bare the weight alone.
‘Cause even the strongest man,
sometimes needs a shoulder to cry on.

Or, maybe it’s when the time comes,
when it would be easier to turn tail and hide.
Than to admit the mistake, fix-it,
and still maintain your pride.

Whatever the ride maybe,
we are tested all the time.
Though we never see the judge,
he is watching and looking for what we possess inside.

Did we do the right thing,
for one and all?
Try to help our fellow man,
when he should slip and fall?

If you performed well,
and always tried to do the best you could.
Your effort will be dully noted,
and your score will be pretty good.

Now, if you paid attention,
you know how and see.
That those lil’ eight seconds,
apply to both you and me.

Remember when it seems like,
that ole’ animal is stronger.
It is only eight seconds,
so just hold on a little longer.

But if you happen to lose your grip,
or get run into a wall.
There is someone out there,
you can always turn to and call.

That ole’ judge is up there watchin,
and to him you cannot lie.
He knows when and if,
you deserve a re-ride.

Don’t ever give up hope,
for all is never lost.
When you are striving to do the best,
sometimes you pay a cost.

However, all the sickness,
aches and the pain.
Will just slip away,
when the prize you gain.

‘Cause it is better than any buckle,
or saddle for the tack wall.
You’ll get to set in the stands,
where the judge oversees it all.