This is a story I share every year at Christmastime – it’s near and dear to my heart. Some know it as, “The Old One” and some as “Because of Love”. Either way, it’s a powerful reminder about why we do what we do. Too many “old ones” are discarded after giving years of love and service to their humans – oftentimes, put out to pasture or “on the back 40” where they eventually wither away to nothing.
In many rescue cases that we’ve worked – where horses needed to be removed from a property and when humans were given the opportunity to go in and take one or more – the younger horses are usually scooped up. They are more quickly rehabilitated and re-homed while old ones are often left behind. My heart would never enable me to do that, they are all deserving.
My first question when I become involved is usually, “Who needs us the most?” regardless of their age.
Our three recent arrivals, Aries, Nicky, and Raz are “old ones”. They are all Thoroughbred mares in their late 20’s. Aries and Raz are full sisters that have always been together and we simply could not separate them – they are very bonded. Nicky, blind and deaf, was in very poor condition and may not have lasted another day. We were not prepared to take in more horses at this time but we couldn’t just turn our heads.
We went on faith and a prayer that support would come that would enable us to help them. With your help, we can accomplish much and make a difference to many.
We’ve been blessed to have had many “Old Ones” pass through our gates. While some are with us now such as Venus, Nadia, Jo, Dancer and others, some that have gone to Rainbow Bridge include Betsy Rose, Little E, Gentleman, Brea, Cricket, Grandma Bones, Nina, Casper, Solace, Matilda, Granny Jewels, Frosty, and many more. Watching the “old ones” and the unconditional love and wisdom that they offer to others in the herd and to humans is an amazing experience that words can’t adequately describe.
If only all humans would take time to open their hearts to see the beauty within these precious souls, then perhaps they would understand why we do what we do – because of love.
Only because of love.
Wishing one and all a Blessed Christmas.
Warmly,
Theresa
