Our First Ride

I put my foot into the stirrup,

And settle onto her back for our first ride.

I am aware as I feel her, that I am sitting,

On a lifetime of her history with humankind.

The history of eight years, so much I don’t know.

Kisses and treats, or just plain neglect,

Of gentle pats or unfair corrections,

A full belly, or never enough to eat.

But this is here and now,

She and I have had a week or so,

To create our own brief history,

Of trust and fair requests.

She steps off a bit unsure, I rub her neck; say her name.

She soon moves with more assurance,

And makes no move to be unruly,

True to so many of the equines I have known,

She works real hard to understand and please.