Life That Heals

The late day fog steals almost all of the daylight that’s left, leaving a dark and foggy scene behind. Every noise has me jumping, and as much as I hate to admit it, I might have to turn back. This whole thing is a little too mystical as some would call it, but I prefer to call it as it is– murder scene worthy.

I can’t fathom why the hell I’d come here alone. But I did, and now I have to face the consequences of my own decisions. 

I roll my ankle and nearly take a tumble, the charm of a bell rings out. I catch myself with my other foot before I hit the ground, and as I look down I see a very sad and very squashed bell ribbon. I take a deep breath in. The ribbon is a dark green, similar to the one I have in my bag, only mine is much lighter in color.

I hear the neigh of the ponies, it’s like they’re calling to me, almost how a siren would call to a sailor. And god damn it, against my best judgement I listen, every step leading me closer to the herd. 

The closer I get to the herd, the more the weather sours. I can hear thunder cracking as I just try to move forward. The faster I get to the herd and tie the ribbon the faster I can get out of the brewing storm. 

I hear a soft nicker on my right, and as I turn I’m met with a vertically challenged seal bay. His brown eyes are full of life and joy as I take a step towards him. 

He lets out a whinny before turning to the side. I don’t know what makes me take a few large steps, but I do, and I close the space between us almost instantly. 

His head swivels to face me, and I swear if a horse had a brow to knit, he would knit his. His eyes reflected more than just light, they seemed to reflect his soul. I know it sounds crazy but I swear I could see what an old calm soul he was.

I can see one ribbon in his mane, barely handing on. I sigh as I reach and start braiding his hair. He huffs, as if to say ‘You should at least ask a man what he wants first.’ before allowing me to continue working the braid. I start braiding the ribbon in about midway, and once it's done I can’t help but admire my work. The braid is clean, with the light green ribbon starting halfway through it, and ending just near the bottom. I used a strong elastic to hopefully keep the braid in place.

I can’t help but think that if I got this pony I’d put him in either light or dark green stuff. I don’t know why but seal bays just look so damn good in green.

The gelding nudges my hand, probably looking for treats I don’t have. I give his soft pinkish nose a squish. He pulls his head back in surprise as I laugh. He snorts as he begins walking off.

Maybe staying was a good decision. Maybe I’ll get that cute gelding, or maybe not. Only God knows.

The walk back was long, and the rains started before I could get into the safety of my car. By the time I was starting the car I was soaked to the bone and shivering, but I couldn’t help but laugh. The gelding seemed to emerge out of the fog, maybe he’d help me emerge out of my own fog. Perhaps he’d save me in a way only a creature who is unable to speak your language can. Maybe instead of saving me as a person, he’d save my heart, my humanity. Maybe he’d make me a better person, maybe he’d even make me want to live.

Animals have a way of reaching out to broken souls and quietly mending them. Sometimes all they have to do is sit on your lap and purr.