#670
Hello fellow horse enthusiasts, Emma here, your friendly neighbourhood draught horse from Hayfield, near the bustling city of Aberdeen. It’s been a while since I’ve posted – apologies, but life here in the north of Scotland can get quite busy.
As we’re reaching the end of this long year of 670, I thought I’d share a little about life as a working horse in the early days of the Middle Ages. Don't worry, no scary Viking battles here, just the day-to-day joys of pulling a cart, enjoying some sweet hay, and the occasional afternoon swim in the River Dee.
Hayfield Happenings
This year in Hayfield has been all about ploughing and preparing the land for autumn sowing. It's amazing to see how much care goes into providing food for humans and their animals. It's not just a case of plopping seeds into the ground and hoping for the best! The soil needs to be turned over and aerated for the roots to grow strong and healthy, a task I, along with my fellow steeds, gladly fulfil. My owner, a sturdy man named Alistair, is very kind. He treats us like part of the family, ensuring we’re well fed, watered, and rested. Every Sunday, he gives us a bit of extra barley and an apple for good measure.
It’s hard work, no doubt. Dragging a plough across fields, pulling heavy loads of supplies – it’s not for the faint of heart. However, I've noticed a bit of a change this year. My job feels less about brute force and more about skill and understanding. We horses seem to be working in a more deliberate way, using the power of teamwork rather than just pure muscle. Maybe it's a new breed of farmer that’s emerging – one who recognises the value of our intelligence.
Speaking of intelligence, you know, I can’t help but think that we horses possess a rather amazing capacity for learning. There’s this old chestnut mare in the village – she's practically a veteran – she knows more than half the human population about what's good and what's bad. If only they'd listen! Sometimes I feel like a tiny teacher trying to help my young foal friend understand how to control their strength, how to respect the other creatures in the fields, and how to enjoy the gentle touch of a human hand.
Travels Across the Kingdoms
Life in Hayfield isn't the only glimpse of the equine world, however. This year I've been fortunate enough to hear tales of the wider world from travelling merchants who pass through our village. They talk about cities further south in England, places like York and Canterbury, bustling with trade and activity. Apparently, even there, horses are central to life. Imagine, pulling luxurious coaches that carry nobles and merchants through cobbled streets, bringing them from market to market, bringing the bounty of the land and the treasures from overseas.
Then there are tales of the monasteries – magnificent buildings dedicated to study and spirituality. Monks use us, gentle giants, to pull their wagons filled with essential supplies for their communities. They also care for us well, I hear, giving us extra oats, and letting us graze in their beautiful, expansive fields. Now that’s a good life if you ask me!
Equine Tidbits from Around the World
From what I can gather, horses are very important to every corner of the kingdoms.
The Saxons to the south, known for their fierce strength and skill at battle, rely heavily on horses for transportation and, sadly, war. There are reports of large-scale battles involving thousands of horses carrying mounted soldiers into the heart of conflict. My heart aches for my brethren involved in these battles, for no creature deserves such brutality. I wish for peace and harmony among all living beings.
From beyond the borders, in the land of the Franks, the new king, a young man named Clovis, has begun to gather armies. While these are formidable, rumour has it he also believes in the importance of diplomatic efforts, and that perhaps peace and trade may prevail over conflict in the long run.
While this year has seen wars, and there have been stories of plagues that ravaged entire villages, leaving many animals, and people, hungry and cold, there are also signs of peace, and pockets of kindness. I have heard tales of how the Irish are masters of breeding and training ponies, that they're highly skilled horsemen, able to ride these sturdy creatures across wild terrain. They bring valuable goods like salt and tools for those who lack the resources.
Lessons Learnt
As I wrap up my ramblings for today, there are two key things that stick with me. One is the ever-increasing significance of horses in the lives of people. They seem to rely on us for every aspect of their existence – from transport and trade to sustenance and communication. This sense of responsibility is both humbling and challenging. We are the backbone of their world, their strength, and I am proud to play my part.
The other key thing is the powerful message of hope. Though darkness may loom at times, we, as a community of horses, and those who care for us, must strive for kindness and cooperation, to nurture peace and share the gifts of this Earth with generosity. Perhaps this message is one that we horses can help share with the human world. We can teach them patience, strength, and compassion. Maybe one day, they will understand that these virtues are just as valuable as speed and power.
Until next time, my dear friends. Keep your hooves on the ground, your minds open, and your spirits soaring!
Love,
Emma.
