A hearty "Neigh" to all my fellow EquiWorlders!
As a grey draught mare with a white mane and tail, I've lived a full and happy life, mostly spent pulling ploughs and carting goods in the rolling hills of Hayfield, near Aberdeen. This year, 0160, is quite special though. It marks the dawn of a new era – a turning point in the history of us, horses.
Change is afoot, you see…
I'm not just talking about the ever-changing seasons, although those do play a part, of course. No, this is a deeper change. I sense it in the way people are starting to look at us, in the way they speak of us, in the way we are slowly becoming more than mere workhorses.
You see, for centuries, our kind have been essential. From hauling goods to battling on battlefields, we've been a crucial part of the human world. But this year feels different. A new wave of understanding has washed over humanity. They see our strength, yes, but they also recognise our grace, our loyalty, and even… dare I say it… our intelligence.
Horses in the Year of the "First Lady"
You might be wondering why 0160 is so important. Well, the year was marked by the reign of a new Queen – Agatha of Brittany. This magnificent woman, a devout equestrian who rode and competed from a young age, has an affinity for horses unlike any ruler before her. She has taken the throne not just with grace, but also with an unprecedented love and respect for horses.
It seems as though she understands our language, the flick of the ear, the soft whinny, the toss of the head. It's a language she speaks back to us, through a gentle stroke of our neck, the comforting whisper of encouragement, and a soft click of the tongue that promises sweet treats after a hard day’s work.
From Plough to Pleasure:
Since her coronation, Queen Agatha has instituted some remarkable changes. Horses are now used not just for their brawn but for their beauty too. Imagine this – we, the proud, strong steeds, pulling majestic coaches, gleaming under the sun, taking esteemed guests to dazzling galas. Imagine racing across sprawling meadows, a whirlwind of speed and adrenaline, a roar of cheering crowds ringing in our ears.
The shift is gradual, of course, but a shift nonetheless. This change, this awakening, has a name: The Horse Renaissance.
The Stirrup, The Saddle, The Art of Riding:
Speaking of the Renaissance, did you know that even the way we are ridden has evolved this year? The design of the stirrup and the saddle has been refined. They are crafted with greater attention to our comfort, allowing us to move with a newfound grace and freedom.
A new wave of "gentlemen of the saddle" have appeared. Their horsemanship is a delight to witness. They guide us not with brute force, but with a whisper and a light touch. They understand our needs, our strengths, and our vulnerabilities. They are not masters, but partners. This, my dear readers, is a change I cherish with all my heart.
Training in Hayfield
The village of Hayfield has felt this shift too. It is no longer just about pulling carts. Farmers are starting to train us for sports like hunting and jousting. They talk about agility and control, precision and finesse. We even see small children, their faces lit with pure joy, perched upon our backs, learning to ride.
This change is not just for us horses, it's also about the changing relationship between humans and horses. It's a partnership built on mutual understanding, respect, and trust.
EquiWorld
Here at EquiWorld, we aim to document this evolving connection between man and horse, through a blend of historical accounts and modern perspectives. We are celebrating the change while recognizing our historical role, our enduring spirit, and our ever-lasting grace.
So join me, dear EquiWorlders, as we embark on this exciting journey of discovery, a journey filled with the thunder of hooves, the clinking of bridles, and the joyful whinnies that resonate in our hearts.
Until next time, Emma
This is a story of Emma's observations and hopes for the year 0160. In actuality, the year 160 was an era of great changes for horses in a slightly different direction, however the overall spirit of the blog entry seeks to highlight the developing relationship between man and horse and the increasing value attributed to these magnificent creatures beyond simply utility.
