A TRIBUTE TO THE GREAT PYRENEES (1996© Highland)

It is time my master, shall we go to tend to the flock out in the snow?
We've taken this path many times before, in weather ten below or more.
The valleys quiet and all is still. The flock graze high upon the hill.
New fallen snow covers the ground. The wind is the only invading sound.
Yet, I feel uneasy and rightly so - something pricks my ears up though.
A distant howl, a closer scent. These are the things that I resent.
I sense it is time for me to depart, to do my evening work of art.
A sudden shadow passes in flight and I move ahead to intercept at right.
The predator is no match you see. We have crossed this path many times, him and me.
A warning growl, teeth on display, a majestic stance and he's on his way.
The flock is safe, both young and old, although that visitor is so bold.
He will wait for another chance to try, but he will have to pass my friends and I.
I will take my stand here tonight, the flock ever in my watchful sight.
A Great Pyrenees, I stand true to my name.
I will love and protect if you do the same.