The Code

Still Lookin - 05/07/2007
by Joe Kreger

(Dedicated to my old friend, Don Gray, who lives by The Code.)

It started on the cattle trails,
survived the bob wire fence.
It's almost a religion,
and it's laced with common sense.

It's a standard of behavior
that endures unto this day.
It's more 'bout how you do things
than what kind of words you say.

Don't reckon it's been printed
in a manual anywhere,
but it's doin' what you say you'll do
and tryin' to be fair.

It's business with a handshake
And holdin' up your end.
It has to do with loyalty
and backin' up a friend.

It's risin' in the mornin'
And tryin' to make a hand.
It's a love for outdoor livin'
and devotion to the land.

It's getting' up a midnight
with a calf or foalin' mare
And givin' your best effort
when the boss ain't even there.

It's stayin' with the cattle
'til you know that they're okay.
It's puttin' off your supper
'til your horse has grain and hay.

It's playin' what's been dealt you
Even when you'd rather fold.
It's trainin' up young cowboys
and respectin' those grown old.

It's getting' up to get back on
Right after you've been throwed.
When you're riding' for the outfit,
Then you're livin' by The Code.

Joe Kreger writes from his home in Tonkawa, Oklahoma. This poem appears in his book, "Still Lookin'". His books and CDs are available from the High Plains Journal newspaper by calling 1-800-954-5263. For personal appearance information, call 1-816-452-3513.

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