Scoutin Ahead

[Verse 1] I found you at the feed store, tail waggin’ dust and straw, I was still learnin’ how to stand, just tryin’ not to fall. Didn’t have much figured out, just boots and second guesses, But you followed me like that was just your business. I moved house to house, learned how to break and mend, You stayed right at my heels like it all made sense. When the world got loud and I didn’t know who I was, You laid right down beside me like this was enough. [Chorus] Now you’re scoutin’ ahead where the light don’t fade, Findin’ all the good spots, clearin’ me a way. I still reach down sometimes, then I remember instead— You’re not gone, you’re just out front, Scoutin’ ahead. [Verse 2] That front door was your television screen, You’d watch the whole world pass like it was meant to be seen. You weren’t quick to trust, you took your time, But once you did, you were mine for life. Just a mutt to strangers passin’ through town, But I knew better every time you laid around. Fifty pounds of pig-shaped joy and grace, Always right there, takin’ up space. [Chorus] Now you’re scoutin’ ahead where the road runs clean, Where the nights stay quiet and the grass stays green. This house feels wrong without your breath, But I know you’re waitin’ somewhere up ahead. I still reach down sometimes, like I always did— You’re not gone, you’re just out front, Scoutin’ ahead. [Bridge] Sixteen years, you walked every mile, Never needed words, just stayed a while. If heaven’s real, I know one thing’s true— It’s already better just havin’ you. [Final Chorus] So when my road finally bends that way, And I’m worn down from the weight I’ve carried, I know I won’t be walkin’ in alone— I’ll see you standin’ where the good dogs go. I’ll lay my hand where your head always went— You’re not gone… You’re scoutin’ ahead. [Outro] Good dog, Danny. Save me a place.