I am consumed and overwhelmed with a sense of pride. each statue makes me proud to be a Texan and part of such spectacular history and culture. There truly is no other place in the world such as Texas. Our unique story and land makes us individualistic and rough around the edges. I feel like Texans have a right to be bold and cocky. We have earned the right through our bravery and eternal love for this land.

I am sure that J. Frank Dobie shares my view about Texas' greatness. I am sure that is why he chose Austin to be his home. The University of Austin was lucky to have his presence here. I am sure that is why our mascot is a longhorn. Could there have been a better symbol of Texas? I think not. "In this picturesqueness and romantic realism his name (longhorn) is destined for remembrance ..." (Dobie 281). Texas and the longhorn share greatness is size and important influences on society. Texans have great love for the land and all of its inhabitance.

Our deep respect for the land and the creatures is depicted in these statues. we see them as greater than living beings. We see them as concepts, as symbols, of glory, truth, strength, passion, and love. Things higher than ourselves. The Mare is, above all others, the most captivating to me. I know being a female has a lot to do with my favoritism. However, I love how the statue represents female strength and power while complimentarily depicts nonviolence and beauty. Four very important elements in honorable woman.

All I can think of as I stare at the work of art are the words of Frank Dobie: "His fire, grace, beauty, speed, endurance, and intelligence were exceeded only by his passion" (Dobie 312). I see all the qualities, these words, in the creature before me. This statue in itself is provocative and romantic. I love the fact that the mare is only stationed on her two hind legs. She looks so much more alive and delicate. I want to touch her to calm her and ride something so wild and free. I can only imagine the speed to which we would travel and the dangers we would encounter. I not only want to ride the could be the mare but I want to know what it feels like to be so innocent and carefree. This is what Texas is all about. We defeated the Empire of Mexico when others said we had no chance. We became an independent country for a time and survived with close to nothing for money. We soon negotiated a deal to become apart of this great nation and took sides a Civil War. Texans are fighters, hard workers, and honest people that enjoy the gifts of the Lord. We worked this land to become what it is today and we have lots to show for our success.

I think that Frank Dobie is an accomplished writer. He has a great ability to capture the glory of nature in words. He writes from his heart as a proud Texan in such a meaningful way it touches my heart. I am so thankful that there are gifted writers in this world that have the talent to share the true passions, emotions, and thoughts. many people are unable to share their feelings in words that truly describe how they feel. When I read Doibie's words I feel the same way he does and yet I am unable to express the in such an awesome way. I believe that everyone is born with a talent and it just takes time to find what it is that you can do better than most. I have not found my talent yet but there is no doubt in my mind that Dobie's talent lies within his writing.