A Hobbit in my Valley

Tolkien built a world called Middle-earth.

To a land with orcs, and hobbits his mind gave birth.

Is this mythology? It seems so to me.

It fits all the requirements that I can see.

From the trenches of World War One,

His tales, legends, and stories were spun.

They tell of grand adventures, evil and good.

Just like the ancient poets would.

So many races, cultures, and lands,

Generations, his stories have spanned.

If I could walk with one of his creations today,

What do I think they would say?

Frodo’s trusty gardener, his faithful Sam,

What would he think about my daily plans?

If he was with me from sunup till sundown,

Would his face smile or crease into a frown?

We would wake up too early and eat not enough food,

Going into work at the mall might sour his mood.

The sights and sounds would surely overwhelm him,

 (Except for the food court: his heart it would win.)

The traffic, cars, and simplicities of modern life,

Would make him long for Rosie his wife.

But he is determined to see his quest through

And all our inventions would excite him some too.

As we left the mall to the University we’d go,

The classes, buildings, and exhibits, to him I’d show.

I think Sam would enjoy this just a little bit more,

Until I showed him what it all was for.

Telling him about the different things we can learn

I’d see the gears in his head start to churn.

“This is too much for me sir!” He’d exclaim

“Just wait until you see my homework!” would be my claim.

He may not enjoy our trip, but he’d stick it out.

Being loyal, that’s what his character is all about.

“Come on Sam.  I know something you’ll love.” I’d say.

“I hope so.”  He’d respond, “So far, I don’t want to stay.”

We’d get in my car and head for the hills!

I know the mountains and valleys will give him thrills.

We’d explore, and I’d show him all my favorite spots,

Dirt roads, rivers, and trails.  With my camera we’d take a few shots.

We’d look for deer and owl, maybe a moose or a bear,

I’d see him ease away from his worry and care.

Hobbits like simple things you see,

They appreciate the basic beauty of a tree.

Our journey in the mountains would continue on,

The gorgeous fall colors would prevent any yawns. 

As we watched the sun set behind the hills,

The flickering city lights would give our hearts thrills.

Sam says, “I had some doubts, but now seeing the stars in the sky,”

 I wonder if Rosie would give your valley a try.

If I could show all this to my old Gaffer,

man, the Prancing Pony would be filled with laughter.”

“That’s okay Sam.” I’d respond.

“These pictures are yours, even the one by the pond.”

As we went back, to take him home to the Shire,

His curiosity would be piqued even higher.

So much for a young hobbit to see and experience,

Yet he’s happy with his hole’s simple fence.

He would wonder about so many things…

Yet the Shire would always be in his dreams. 

Yes, Sam is brave and would enjoy our day,

But in his heart, he never could say.

He has a strong connection to his home, family, and land,

The Shire’s rolling green hills is where he wants to stand.

But man, I wish you were here Sam.