A horse

Today, I bought a horse. I did it. I am seeking to reconnect with a part of my heart and my soul that helped me through very tough times growing up.

The smell of hay and manure and damp horse was like a balm to my battered soul and body when I was a child. I knew that the horse would listen, and watch, and absorb the tears I shed.

Back then, I knew the horse would take me far from the chaos of that abusive home, night or day. It was the only acceptable excuse I had for being away. Riding became my salvation.

And now, today, in these uncertain times, with an empty nest and a husband recovering from a cerebral hemorrhage, it just might be what delivers me to the other side again, in one piece.

I have a horse.