Five years ago, I wrote this homage to a great friend, a mountain horse, who I love. Today I share it again as I say goodbye. Go rest high on that mountain, old friend.
Stories From a Mountain Horse
I stand here enjoying the sun.
I chat with a friend and talk about the fun.
I wish he could share with me and tell it all.
Can you imagine the stories he has to tell?
Can you imagine a life lived so well?
A horse.
A guide.
A Mustang.
A huge heart.
A fighter.
A winner.
The “A Squad.”
He’s been to the top of each mountain.
He’s a hunting machine.
His face is gray with age and experience.
The years. The miles. The tales he has to tell.
A warm sunny meadow on a summer morning.
A frightened woman and her first ride.
A cheering family as her fears subside.
A determined hunter.
A loaded pack-saddle and switch back trail.
A bull bugle on a moonlit night.
A celebration near the campfire after a stalk and ride.
Cold mornings covered in frost.
Thick snow, ice, climbing and never lost.
The sweet, fresh blades of grass breaking through the snow.
A race for the honor and winning it all you know!
Elk, deer, bear, turkey, grouse, once-in-a-lifetime moose, all special hunts.
All memories that make him proud to have the gray-faced wisdom of seeing it all.
Now, relaxed, sunning, taking it in.
You are still a champion and I know you are proud old friend!!!
