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-44The Maverick Way A maverick’s never worn a brand, At least not one that shows. He’s free to travel where he will, The trail is one he chose. A stray is one who’s been a part of someone else’s band, And drifted to another range, But he still wears the brand. His leaders cry, “You’ve lost your mind, That’s not the way it’s done. A chosen few can make that move You don’t look like the one.” Then safe inside the pasture fence Afraid to stand alone, Unsure of his opinions, he’s No longer on his own. Now what if all the skeptics had Discouraged Ford and Bell, Or Roosevelt said, “Let’s don’t fight,” The day Pearl Harbor fell? If Jonas Salk had not come up With polio vaccine, Or some bright mind had not perceived The television screen? The mavericks make a difference. They Know where to find the feed. They don’t cry out “Take care of me, The grass has gone to seed.” -45The tough times make them buckle up And bow their necks and pull. They never lay their shovel down Until their bucket’s full. If I appear a renegade And don’t conform to style, Don’t think me strange or crazy, just Ride down my trail awhile. But if I choose a path that you Find rocky, rough, or steep, The herd has left an easy trail The ruts are wide and deep. Remember, nothing ever grows Till someone plants a seed. The scenery changes only For the steer that’s in the lead. So try to use your talents so That some kind soul will say, “That feller there’s a maverick, he Ain’t just your average stray.” 1990 ...

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