Prayer of the Horse 

Feed me, care for me, and when the day’s work is done, provide me with shelter, a clean dry bed and a stall wide enough for me to lie down in comfort. Talk to me. Your voice often means as much as the reins. See that I have plenty of water; I need lots of it, especially during the hot summer days and, in the winter, see that I have a warm blanket.

​

Pet me sometimes, that I may learn to love you and that I may serve you more gladly.

Do not jerk the reins and do not whip me.

​

Never strike, beat or kick me when I do not know what you want, but give me a chance to understand you. Watch me and if I fail to do your bidding, or am uneasy, nervous, or irritable, see if something is wrong with my bridle or saddle or my feet, etc.

​

When I go lame, I may have corns, a stone or a nail in my foot.

If necessary, take me to a good blacksmith.

​

Examine my teeth when I do not eat. I may have an ulcerated tooth and that, you know, is very painful. If I am not doing well, give me something for worms, for they may be taking my strength.

​

Do not tie my head in an uncomfortable position or take away my best defense against flies and mosquitoes by cutting off my tail.

​

Brush and curry me at least once a day, so my hair will shine and be nice and glossy. I want you to be proud of me when you show me to your friends.

​

And finally, O my Master, when my youthful strength is gone, do not turn me out to starve or freeze. Keep me not out in the rain all night or sell me to some cruel owner to be slowly tortured and starved to death, but do thou, O my Master, take my life in the kindest way and your God will reward you here and hereafter.

​

You will not consider me irreverent, if I ask this in the name of Him, who was born in a stable.

​

AMEN