VALUES (Up On The Tonto Rim)

I was runnin' on a back road

Way up near the Tonto Rim

When my semi started smokin'

And my hopes began to dim.

I'd never get to Payson

And drop this load on time.

After towing, parts, and labor,

I wouldn't make a dime.

As I stood there on the shoulder

And pondered what to do

Staring blindly 'cross a canyon

Some things came into view.

It wasn't just the mountains,

Gray and white against blue sky,

Or green pines standing straight and tall,

That began to catch my eye.

I was in it for the money,

Just as much as any man,

But also cause I got to see

The beauty of this land.

I was grateful for the people

I met while running free,

But lately, though still lookin'

I'd forgotten how to see.

So, hell, the rig was busted

And the boss would sure be mad

But I thought I heard a river...

You know, it didn't seem so bad!

Sure, I have my obligations

And the things I've said I'll do.

There's money to be made

But before each day is through...

There's those moments in the mountains

Or perhaps along the shore

When I stop and I remember

What the hell I do it for.

So, I stood there with my cell phone,

My finger set to dial...

Then went looking for that river.

The rig could wait a while.

• Donovan Baldwin