Raku

I must admit, I have a soft spot for the Old Guys. The horses with the gray on their muzzles and the wisdom of time reflected in their eyes...

They have a history. They will tell you the stories of their youth if you open your heart to them. Spend some quiet time with an old horse. They will tell you their tales and it is an honor they bestow on us if we are still enough to simply listen.

Just be, and listen...Oh, the things you will learn from an old horse! Trust me, this knowledge is very special and holds infinite wisdom. Ancient instincts combined with an unfaltering partnership with humans-- it holds many answers and shares many secrets.

Then, look into the eyes of an old horse.

The eyes may grow milky as old age approaches, but the clouds do not cover the nobility. Horses are born into nobility--each and every one. Nobility is not taught. It just is.

Here is my old friend, Raku. His talents for launching himself into the air could rival a Lipizzaner from Vienna.

His head was the first one poking out looking for breakfast. He would nicker at his best friend, G, as she called "GOOOOBER"!

Always happy.

Always with a glint of mischief in his eye.

Purple polo wraps.

An etiquette instructor and babysitter for the young ones.

A good friend to all; a wise teacher to the riding student and stable hand.

But most of all, he is the best friend of a wonderful person, G, who loves him very, very much. They are both blessed. Friendships like this come along once in a lifetime.

It was good to groom you again, Raku. You keep those youngsters in line, ya hear?