Treat me kindly, my beloved friend, for no heart in all the world is more grateful for your kindness than the loving heart of mine.

Speak to me often, for your voice is the world’s sweetest music, as you must know by the swishing of my tail when your footstep falls upon my waiting ears.

Please take me inside when it is cold and wet, for I am a domesticated animal, no longer accustomed to bitter elements.  Do not hesitate to blanket me and protect me. I ask no greater glory than the privilege of you letting me walk quietly beside you, for I  am the schoolmaster and forever your teacher. 

Jackson 1992-2012

Keep my trough filled with fresh warm water, for I can’t tell you when I’m thirsty. Feed me nourishing food that I may stay well, to run and play, to brush up against your side or to simply greet you at our gate. 

And, my friend, when I am old, and I no longer enjoy good health and happiness, do not make heroic efforts to keep me. Forgive me if I bring you no more fun or pleasure.  Please see that my trusting life is taken gently.  I shall leave this earth knowing with the last breath I draw that my fate was always safest in your loving hands. Thank you my dear friend. I will wait patiently in God’s glorious green pasture and will come running for you when I see you up on Rainbow Ridge. 

My love always, 

Jackson

My wife and I had the privilege of caring for Jackson for five years. Though he was a registered Thoroughbred and trained as a hunter-jumper, we were not once on his back. He had been over-worked and mistreated by his former owners. In pursuit of ribbons and trophies, they injured his spine and disabled him. Adopted by us, he became our school-master. He led and trained our other horses. He protected the herd, was always out in front and never failed to lead the way. Though not strong, he was proud. He was our friend and trusted companion and we will miss him deeply.