Bronco

 

Hi, my name is Bronco. I was out with my brother today when I came across two strangers who were hiking in the woods. They do not have my sense of smell nor sense of direction, so I took it upon myself to guide them.

This isn't just any walk, it's my job to guide these strangers safely through their adventure! Through these mysterious woods. Without me, they would surely get lost.

The trail smells like a million adventures. There's the earthy musk of damp dirt, the sweet, piney tang of trees, and something spicy and mysterious that makes my nose twitch. These humans, blessed with giant legs, hinder them while I zigzag, nose glued to the ground. Every rustle in the bushes is a potential squirrel-enemy to chase (though sometimes it's just a boring old lizard), and every fallen log is an obstacle course just begging to be conquered.

Sunlight filters through the leaves in dappled patterns, making the world look like a game of hide-and-seek with sunshine. Birds chirp a language I don't understand, but their merry melody makes my tail thump a rhythm against the ground. There's a cool breeze that carries the scent of something distant. Maybe water? Possibly something edible.

Without the restraint of a leash, I am free to roam. I am on the trail, then off into the woods. Then back again on the trail, ensuring these two-legged beasts are keeping up. The world opens, and I gasp (well, I pant excitedly). Tediously, they remained on the path, oblivious to the hidden wonders of the forest.

I often trot back to these humans, a triumphant grin (or rather, a tongue lolling out) on my face. They often rest for a while, while I continue to follow smells and sounds that catch my attention. The hike back is a leisurely pace compared to the initial start, and my joyful explorations have left me pleasantly exhausted. The essence of life lies in the wind's sensation caressing my fur, the myriad of scents that fill my nostrils, and the exhilarating journeys shared with strangers turned friends.

Despite my lack of understanding of human speech, I overheard someone talking about a 4-mile trek today, whatever that entails. They chuckled and remarked that I must have walked over 7 miles.

Eventually, I guided them back to the peculiar, clamorous boxes they had arrived in. They swiftly climbed into them, leaving me stranded in the empty parking lot. As I lived nearby, there was no cause for concern. My dad was called by one of them, and he explained that I often wander through the woods, safely guiding strangers while I mark my territory.

I felt a sense of fulfillment as I completed my good deed for the day. I plan to head home, rejuvenate with a nap, and possibly share my newfound knowledge with others soon.

Until next time,

Tim