The Quest

Deb Meyer

I watch the mare rattle the gate.
She’s stocky, gray, and strong.
Alert, keen determination,
Her task won’t take her long.

Contemptible, stubborn, and mean,
With these words she’s branded.
She scorns the rule of haughty man,
Balks at what’s commanded.

I watch the mare rattle the gate.
The feral land has called.
Her spirit cannot be tethered,
Nor shall her soul be stalled.

I know well her consternation,
Bound by my own constraint.
She rages against her capture.
Yet, I repress complaint.

I watch the mare rattle the gate.
Refusing herd and hay,
She rejects the deal that’s offered,
The price too high to pay.

Her courage and will are humbling.
Not cowed by circumstance,
She gives her all for freedom's sake,
Without a backward glance.

I watch the mare rattle the gate.
This quest she will not quit.
I envy her bold endeavor,
But lack her guts and grit.

My eyes seek out the distant hills,
My heart its true desire.
A change begins with one small spark,
And then becomes a fire.

I watch the mare rattle the gate.
Soon hoof beats call to me...
Just follow your own happiness,
Rattle the gate—run free!