The Hungry Horse

How cruel a world for those who trust
Who's gentle heart turns cold
When all is denied to nourish you
Leaving you weak and looking old

Once glory to sit upon your back
A gentle mouth took heed
They used you once upon a time
And now, deny your need

Your coat has lost its shimmer
Your bones tell us the tale
Your eyes once bright, are hollow
Your feet are long, your gums are pale

You stagger when you once could run
You move with arthritic pain
Your heart still beats, your mind still longs
For a fresh drink, for grass for grain.

I'm here to take you home with me
You will suffer never more
Green pasture and fresh water
And a barn for you in store

We will find your flesh returning
We will trim your teeth and feet
We will grain you every single day
All you care to eat

Someday when your body mends
And you are fit and fat and sound
I will sit with pride upon your back
And we will fly across the ground

For this that I am certain
Though your world had fell apart
I can see through your shaggy coat and bones
To the starvation of your heart

My love will fill it up again
My care will make you strong
My hands will be on you every day
You are now wanted and belong

For every horse who has lived hungry
And for those who give relief
You couldn't be more supported
In this monumental grief

May your pastures grow green and free of thorns
And many blessings fill your day
May your bonds be tied with miracles
And all the hungry horses ride away

Written from a wild heart by:
Annette King, Animal Rescuer
Wild Heart Ranch Wildlife Rescue
Claremore, Oklahoma
www.wildheartranch.org