Nelore Valente

On the farm where I was born
Grandpa was a cowboy
As a child, I learned
To herd the dairy cattle
One morning
Just see what despair
There was a sick calf
And the farmer's order
Kill that animal right away
And disinfect the cattle pen
If this disease spreads
It could contaminate
My whole herd

I noticed that my grandfather
Was quite upset
For having to sacrifice
The newborn animal
In the tears of his eyes
I understood his plea
I took the little animal in my arms
Took it home secretly
With herbs and blessings
His case was resolved
I treated him with care
And the milk the boss gave
Was shared with him

When the farmer found out
He called my grandfather
Said: You were stubborn
Not killing the little calf
You'll leave my farm
Early tomorrow morning
That hurt grandpa
Like a thorn wound
But there's always someone in the world
Who gives us some affection
And without much sacrifice
Grandpa found work
There on a neighboring farm

In a short time the calf
Was already a grown ox
Beautiful, strong, sturdy
Gentle and very well trained
He pulled the car out of the mud
With ease
So he became quite famous in the area
Until one evening
A desperate man
Shouted for help
His car had fallen down the hill
His son was trapped

The ox managed to pull
The car from the ravine
The boy was alive
His father said, sobbing
Whatever the amount
I'll buy this ox
I said: He's priceless
I'll explain the reason
Grandpa's kindness
Saved your son
This brave Nelore
Is the sick little calf
That you ordered to be killed