Long May it Wave

The Star Spangled Banner inspires all manner

Of feelings in folks when it plays—

Every bareback bronc veteran feels a rush of adrenaline

Long after his rodeo days.

The Anthem’s first sound brings the Chute Boss around

Yellin’ “Pull ’em down boys! Let’s rodeo!”

And you straddle the chute, ease down onto the brute,

Grab your riggin’ and stretch latigo.

Then the rockets’ red glare, the bombs bursting in air

Grow distant; seem to fade into dim.

Rosin squeaks in your handhold. The horse shivers as if cold.

And, for eight seconds, there’s just you and him.