The Gift
Glowing in the darkness was the gift.
Like shadows glistening in the night.
Bedded down about the “old one” where he sits,
the entire herd was safe in the meager light.
At the first hint of smoke she sprang to action.
Pushing open the door, the horses ran to freedom.
Slowly, with dignity, the horses digging for traction,
She led them up the snowy hill to the “old one.”
The young horses were nervous & gave a whine.
But, calmed as the “old one” came into sight.
She moved up the hill to the safety of the pine
Where the “old one” rested with his wife.
She lay among the animals as one anointed
and gazed at the faces of the “old one” and his wife.
Those she loved she had not disappointed.
Her body, brittle, with the years of her long life.
She was tired from the long climb and her years;
golden eyes filled with tears as she offered her gift.
Because of love, the couples eyes filled with joy & tears.
They shouted their praise and joy for the gift.
The gift of love and devotion until the end.
The bearer of the gift kneeled in praise.
The “old one” accepted the gift from his friend.
He said “May you always be wise in your ways.”
——————————————————R. W. Johnson—–(2011)