By Emma, Hayfield near Aberdeen, Scotland
A gentle breeze rustles through the barley fields, carrying with it the sweet scent of summer hay and the distant whinny of a foal. My name is Emma, and I'm a grey draught horse, a bit older now, nearing twenty summers. This time of year always fills me with a sense of peace - the world is bathed in sunlight, the grass is lush, and the work on the farm slows to a comfortable rhythm. But the days are not without their excitement, especially when you consider all that's happening in the world of horses in 137 AD!
Today, I thought I'd share my reflections on the year so far. Like most horses of my kind, life here in the north of Scotland revolves around the land and its seasons. Spring, of course, was a joyful whirlwind of fresh growth and new life. Foals frolicked in the pastures, their playful antics a delight to watch. I, though a little long in the tooth to be joining in, always enjoy observing their exuberance - it brings back happy memories of my own youth.
Summer is upon us now, and the work on the farm is in full swing. My strong frame is used to pull the heavy plows that prepare the land for harvest. My fellow horses and I enjoy this work. It gives us purpose, allows us to connect with the earth, and reminds us that we are vital members of this community.
However, my heart doesn't belong solely to the fields of Hayfield. Even in the heart of this rural life, news travels quickly. Just the other week, a traveller passing through town recounted tales of magnificent horse races in Rome! The Colosseum is known for its chariot races, and apparently, this year was particularly spectacular. Can you imagine the thunder of hooves on the arena floor, the crowds cheering on their favourite charioteers? I long to experience the thrill of a grand race, though my days of fast movement are mostly limited to a swift gallop through the fields now.
I often dream of such feats of athleticism, reminiscing about the day I saw a magnificent black stallion in a travelling show. He was swift, elegant, and effortlessly leapt over high hurdles, displaying an agility I could only admire from afar. Even now, the sight of that magnificent creature brings a wistful smile to my face. I may not have the grace of a racehorse or the agility of a circus performer, but my kind, the draught horses, possess strength and endurance unlike any other breed. Our sturdy builds make us invaluable for pulling wagons, cultivating land, and hauling goods.
Even as I ponder on different ways to enjoy life beyond the farm, I find great satisfaction in my work here in Hayfield. Our young shepherd, Jamie, relies heavily on my steadiness. I am entrusted to lead him through the winding paths and steep slopes as he checks on his sheep. My strength and surefootedness ensure he and the flock remain safe. It's a peaceful, rhythmic routine, punctuated by the soft baas of the sheep and Jamie's cheerful whistles.
The days here may be filled with routine and physical labour, but the evenings offer a special magic. As the sun sets, casting long shadows over the fields, my companions and I graze together, enjoying the gentle murmur of the nearby stream. We share stories of the day's adventures and anxieties, finding comfort in the knowledge that we are not alone.
I’ve learned much during my time here, both from humans and horses alike. There’s wisdom to be gleaned in the patient steps of the plow, in the gentle nuzzles of the younger foals, and in the camaraderie we share. The year 137 AD has so far brought a calmness to my soul, the gentle sway of a steady routine, a profound connection to the land, and an endless supply of fascinating stories carried by the winds of rumour and gossip.
Life for us horses, whether in the busy markets of London or the peaceful hills of Hayfield, remains intertwined with the needs of humans and the rhythm of nature. We are companions, workers, and even sources of amusement, proving ourselves essential and cherished members of a world beyond our own.
And as the sun sets and the day draws to a close, I am filled with a sense of deep satisfaction. This life may not be filled with the thrills and spills of grand adventures, but it is one I embrace with my whole heart, for within its simplicity, I find a fulfilling purpose. Until next time, my fellow equestrians!
