Monday, December 1, 2014

Saying Good-bye

My beloved horse doesn't hurt anymore.  He's not stiff and his back hip works the way it should.  He's head of the herd again and can part the waters by laying his ears back.  And he can gallop the hills of the pasture with mane flying.

It was time to say good-bye today and my heart is breaking.  We've been companions for 24 of his 30 years. He was my first horse and he may be my last.  Two other horses have taught me lessons about riding and when its time to let go of an unhealthy partnership, but Natural gave me the best gift -- love, friendship, and trust.

Of course I was there today to tell him it was OK and that I knew he was tired.  He has leaned on me in the past few months to help him and I know he trusted me. I hope I was able to reassure him.

He was my "love potato" and somehow the world doesn't seem right without him in it.

    

11 comments:

  1. Janet, My heart is breaking for you and I know absolutely no words can make your pain go away. May you always carry in your heart the love that the two of you shared.

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  2. Janet, breaks my heart also. I could say a lot of things, but 'tis true.. nothing makes the hurt go away. Just know that I am here, and I care.. and I'm very thankful you introduced us to Natural via your blog. I could tell right away he was a super special fella. I always longed for such a horse in my life. Hugs and ♥ - Tammy

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  3. Tammy, you're right. I was lucky to have that "best horse in the world".

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  4. I am so sorry. I know you have struggled with this for a while, but the time is always still too short. I know Natural will remain in your heart forever.

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  5. Very touching tribute Janet. Natural was one of my favorites and we will all miss him. But I do believe the thoughts you expressed and you will see him again. Until that day Rest in
    Peace beautiful boy.....

    Terry

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    1. Terry, you couldn't have said anything nicer. But darn, now I'm crying again!

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  6. Janet, I am so sorry to hear about Natural. He was lucky to have 24 years with you, who loved him and gave him such good care. You were right there with him and you did absolutely reassure him.

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  7. Ooh, Janet my heart aches for you.
    I had a horse for many years before leaving him in England when I came overseas, I missed him everyday.
    He had a wonderful home and I can imagine him running free with his tail high in the air.
    Hugs,
    ~Jo

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  8. This is such a moving tribute. I haven't commented before, but my heart aches for you and your loss.

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