A Unique Bond
As a former owner and lover of horses, and understanding the unique bond that is formed between human and animal, discovering this poem many years ago meant so much to me. It was powerful and mysterious. It reminded me of the respect which is required in order for the two to work as one. It also made clear that one does not own the other.
The author is unknown but through a little research I found that it possibly relates to a desert horse in Africa. However when I read it, it conjures up a vision of a Native American in full warrior dress riding bareback on a painted pony.
I am your equal
I am a wild creature that can never be like you
I have heart, courage, and the game spirit that is my heritage
And I will be respected
I will be taught, and I will please, And maybe in time I will be your intimate
But I will never be your possession
Mine is a fierce love, which knows no mercy for failure
No sympathy for weakness
I have come from the desert with its closeness to the spirit of nature
Which you do not understand
I was born of the Wind
Mine is a warrior spirit
I cannot be humiliated in
punishment or defeated even in death
For my spirit lives on in my children’s children
Unknown