HORSE LIFE>
We happen to live about half way between one of Virginia's leading Horse Centers near Lexington,Va. and the Charles Town, West Virginia Race Tracks. It is only natural that we should see a great many fine horses being transported up and down U. S, Route #11 or Interstate 81.
It is a real treat for us to see such fine horse flesh and one quickly come to appreciate the special care and attentions which the proud owners give
their potentially prize-winning animals. They travel in fine horse trailers and all seem to be pleased with their lot.
I wrote the poem “Horse Life" April 2, 1971 after following a rather elaborate transfer vehicle moving southward on Interstate 81.
HORSE LIFE H
Horses live better than people.
Oh, yes! Yes.
Visit the horse country.
See the plush stables,
the private caravans – stalls on wheels,
air conditioned.
The fine menu -
as horse feeds go -
balanced plus good green in Spring
and Summer; the finest of hays in Winter
Warm blankets, if needed or fan-made breeze.
But don't knock the horse's life.
Theirs is no Welfare State.
They work..
they run - daily and often,
several times an hour
they exercise, they prance,
.they exercise, the prance about,
they pose.
They face obstacles, too,
high, higher and highest.
And they listen...
Yes, they listen and learn
to obey what they listen to -
willingly. Eagerly.
They strive to do better.
They improve with practice.
Y'know...come to think of it...
that may be a reason why:
“Horses live better than people!”
That is - some horses and some people.
Possibly.
Probably.
Andrew McCaskey amccsr@adelphia.net 12-12-06 279wds]
