Hello, my lovely equestrian friends! It’s Emma here, a humble grey mare with a snowy mane and tail. I live in a place called Hayfield, nestled near the rolling hills of Aberdeen in Scotland. The year is 0593 AD and as a well-seasoned twenty-year-old draught horse, I feel it's my duty to share a bit about what life is like in my part of the world. Let’s journey back in time, shall we?
As the first rays of the morning sun kissed the dewy grass, the scent of hay mingled with the tang of sea air. It’s an exhilarating feeling, I tell you, to have the crisp air whisk past your coat as you pull a plough across the fields. You see, we’re much more than just handsome steeds here at Hayfield. We’re the heart and soul of our village. We till the soil for sustenance, we pull wagons loaded with precious cargo, and we play a vital role in connecting families, villages, and the wider world.
This year, I've had the privilege of working alongside a wonderful family. The Smith family, as they're called. Mr. and Mrs. Smith, along with their three lovely children, are kind and generous souls. They take care of our needs, from our oats and hay to ensuring we’re given the rest we deserve after a day's hard work. Mr. Smith says I'm "strong as an ox" - not that I mind, he seems to mean it in the most flattering way!
Speaking of Mr. Smith, this year he’s been teaching young Thomas to work with us horses. He’s learning the ropes, as they say, but the boy has a natural connection with animals, even the sometimes grumpy Angus who lives in the next stall!
My favourite part of the day, of course, is when we get a chance to frolic in the fields with the other horses. We whinny and prance, playfully nip each other, and let our manes and tails flow in the breeze. It’s a joyous feeling, full of camaraderie and playful spirit. You’ve heard of the ‘Horse Whisperer’, well, some of us horses are pretty good at ‘Human Whispering’ too. It's true, our neighs can convey a surprising amount of emotion - from contentment to warning, from a mischievous twinkle to a serious plea.
We’re quite lucky here in Hayfield. We have a bustling village square, and people come from far and wide to exchange goods. The market is a delight, bustling with activity and scents from the different foods being cooked.
Of course, there are other horses in the world who don’t have it so lucky. I've heard tales from the traveling traders - some stories make my ears prick up and my heart clench. I've heard stories of the Roman legions marching across Europe, using horses for swift transportation and brutal warfare. The thought of my kind used in that way makes my hooves tremble.
Despite these challenges, it’s important to remember that horses, as a whole, have contributed immensely to the world. Our tireless strength, unwavering loyalty, and inherent instinct for speed have allowed humanity to progress in remarkable ways.
In these times, we are essential. Just this past spring, I helped Mrs. Smith transport goods to the neighboring village for the annual fair. Seeing the smiles on the children's faces as I pulled the cart, it solidified that this is my calling: to help, to work, to be part of a community.
However, even with our invaluable contributions, our needs and rights often get overlooked. There are those who view us simply as work animals, a tool to be used for their own gain. They don’t understand the intelligence that flickers behind our bright eyes, or the courage that roars through our veins.
We are not just ‘things’ or mere machines - we are sensitive, emotional beings with feelings just like yours.
Oh, speaking of feeling, remember when I mentioned young Thomas and Angus the grumpy horse? He’s not so grumpy these days! You see, I think the Smith family took him to see a wonderful thing in the big city of Edinburgh. A festival of horse racing! They’ve even told stories about a great, magical ‘Golden Horse’ who runs like the wind! Perhaps one day I’ll have the privilege of seeing it.
What a truly inspiring sight it would be! We may be different breeds, with various skills, temperaments, and strengths. But together, as one equine family, we stand united.
Even when faced with hardship, uncertainty, and change, let’s remember the enduring strength and beauty of the horse.
Until next time, fellow equestrians, stay well!
Emma xx
