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I see how it is with them, left to their own pursuits
in our absence: the forgotten gate merely ajar
between the two pastures, kept that way for days
and the yearling heifers choose this morning to pass
through, as if walking along a path to water’s edge
to disrobe with one another and bathe.
Are they unlike the rugged, disbelieving soul, refusing
heaven yet slipping through some narrow way, perchance
it may be better or at least, strange—whether imperfect
as anywhere in the world—nothing nearly sweet as
the sight of them.
Copyright 2024 Sean Sexton
Sean Sexton, was born in Indian River County, FL, and grew up on his family’s Treasure Hammock Ranch where he manages a 700-acre cattle operation. He paints, writes, and keeps daily sketch and writing journals. His most recent poetry volume is Portals, Press 53, 2023. He performs regularly at the National Cowboy Poetry Gathering in Elko, NV.

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Vox Populi, thank you for introducing me to Sean’s writing.
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It’s a pleasure to bring excellent writers together to share work and exchange ideas.
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Sean Sexton is America’s premier pastoral poet; he raises cowboy poetry from folk art to high literature, a force of nature in his own right. It is a privilege to bring his poetry to Vox Populi’s readers.
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Such lovely natural imagery, as always, Sean.
“and the yearling heifers choose this morning to pass
through, as if walking along a path to water’s edge
to disrobe with one another and bathe.”
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Like most of his readers and even more his listeners, I am grateful for Sean and his wisdom.
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Miss you Warren!
Stay safe in Tornado-land…
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Sean has left an indelible and beautiful mark on this world with his words, his art and his love for cattle and the way of life it entails. There is no other like him!
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Yes, Sean is America’s greatest pastoral poet, a national treasure.
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What a gentle poem, how it invites us to slow down, and look, along with the speaker, at those peaceful animals choosing
“this morning to pass
through, as if walking along a path to water’s edge
to disrobe with one another and bathe.”
I love Sean Sexton’s poems — am thankful for them, so full of faith and heart, music and wisdom.
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L-A B you are too sweet!
Thankyou so much.
-Sean
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Thankyou Renee:
I miss you all! Best to Bayard.
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