This is a rather haunting piece of writing for me, so I thought I would post it here instead of on the regular forum.
Trappings concealed the
tattered spirit.
Thoughts flowing
deep and furious.
Death collected
past mistakes
Sadness swirled
within this place.
Anger lived
deep within.
Shielding years of
perceived sins.
Misgivings purge
and spill out.
Forgiveness granted
to all but myself.
Verthandi 8/12/07
Many unfiled pieces of my life seem to want to join together and depart last week. It was a wonderful feeling, but felt like a death at the same time.
Yesterday was one of those days that I wait for all year. It was the 10th anniversary of the Special Olympics Equestrian Division of the Summer Games in Maine. I have been a judge for the riding classes for the past 6 years, along with my 16 year old neighbor that is my recorder of scores.
Just the fact that my helper was only 10 when she started and will postpone her own busy schedule to attend with me I find a miracle. She is a very special young lady.
Hundreds of hours go into make this one day happen. Athletes young and old prepare by riding all year round. The most gentle and peaceful horses carry them with grace and overlook the incorrect body movements that some of them may make. But know which cues to understand.
There is an energy that surrounds all that help with this event. And even though I think I can usually find the words to describe something......I am at a loss to truly explain this day. The coaches have patience and love beyond normal people. The athletes wear their emotions for all to see. I think this is where mankind is missing out. If they are upset it shows, if they are elated, it shows! When did I forget to be this open with the world? It is an honor just to be able to ride on their coat sleeves and visit the energy that this group displays.
This is not one of my better pieces, but with the spent feelings and slow let down from yesterday this is all I could muster.
Special Olympics
Grins and smiles
surround the sand.
Admiration from
all their fans.
Brave athletes
mount and command
Equines ten fold their size
under the grand stand.
Months of training
today to test.
Striving to be
the best.
Courage, patience
determination and skill.
Patterns to remember
and outstanding good will.
Parents, grandparents,
coaches and friends.
Cheer them on
To the end.
Just when we
think we can’t go anymore.
The day end ribbons
are about to be bestowed.
It is all worth this day
to see their faces.
Pure emotion of this kind
Doesn’t existed in many places.
I have been working on a small piece of writing to describe the feelings of the first time a rider gets on a young horse and the connection that developes between them. The piece was ready to be sent out along with a photo for publication in a local newsletter.
First Ride
Raw amber honey,
vanilla cream.
Young, taut muscle
lacking memory
to impede.
Confusion and wonder
are seen in his eyes.
Working so hard
to decide.
Each step
a journey.
Guess the answer.
Good try.
Curiosity, youth,
trust and
a kind heart.
Serve him well
on his first start.
Movements lengthen
then withdraw.
Softness invades
neck, back and jaw.
Big sighs
release in
tandem from each.
As the perfect day
is now complete.
Verthandi 7/23/07
Upon reviewing it, I think I am going to have to start over. Depending on the state of mind of the reader....this could also be talking about a young, inexperienced lover....oops.
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