Many times I'm sure you've heard, The old expression, "Holy Cow."
I never thought about it much, That is - up until just now
 It is used to show emotion, To express exasperation
Or display profound amazement, or extreme exaggeration.



Its roots, I think, could be Midwest, perhaps basic Minnesota
Wisconsin or Nebraska, or maybe South Dakota
But,I think it goes way back in time, Like to ancient Bible days
When priests were in the temples, and sacrifice was all the rage.

 In atonement for men's evil ways they used to slay a fatted calf
And offer it to God in praise, and in His honor and behalf.
The calf was laid upon the altar, and priestly heds would bow
One voice might shout out, "Praise be!" And another, "Holy Cow!"

This, of course is plain conjecture, no one's told me this is so
And it doesn't really matter that I don't really know
What's at the base of my bewilderment is a scene from the other night
When my cat came in the room and proudly strolled into my sight.



Smilingly,I sat me down, and patted my plump knee
My body language told her to come up and sit with me.
She looked at me; then looked askance, and strutted right on by
I ignored her cold response, though I kept her in my eye.

I hardly believed what next I saw, it almost threw me into shock
She jumped upon my table, and across it's surface walked.
She headed for my Bible,and on its cover, down she sat.
Well, "Holy Cow!" I thought, But my voice cried, "Holy Cat!"



So now, within our household, when vocal passions reign,
"Holy Cow" is not the phrase of choice, "Holy Cat" is now exclaimed!
A cat laying on a Bible, perhaps appears absurd
But most folks aren't as close to God, as she is to His Word.  

Virginia (Ginny) Ellis
copyright 2000
Page By Mary Jones
2004