Hello everyone! It’s Emma, your trusty grey draught mare, coming to you from the rolling hills of Hayfield near Aberdeen, Scotland. Welcome back to my blog, where we travel through time together, one year at a time, uncovering the wonderful world of horses in history!
Today, I'm whisking you away to the year 842. The snowdrops are just starting to peek out from the frozen earth, and a fresh breeze carries the scent of heather and damp grass. It’s a year of quiet change, but the echoes of earlier struggles still linger in the air. You see, in 842, the Viking invasions were only a distant memory, their impact still felt in the communities scattered across the land. But for horses like me, life goes on - working the fields, pulling carts, and forging a strong bond with our human companions.
A Day in the Life
As the morning sun kisses the peaks of the Cairngorms, I am woken by the familiar clink of harness and the cheerful “good morning” from my human, Thomas. He's a young man, strong and eager, with kind eyes that reflect the spirit of this rugged land. We share a silent understanding, forged through months of tireless work. He trusts me with the weight of the plough, and I trust him to know when to ease the reins and give me a well-deserved rest.
Our days are filled with the earthy scent of turned soil and the rhythm of hooves against hard-packed ground. We bring in the hay from the meadows, pulling heavy loads of straw and fodder for the livestock. I'm proud to play a vital role in our community. Our strength ensures the survival of those who rely on our unwavering loyalty. Sometimes, Thomas uses me to carry his father to market, his weathered face etched with lines of wisdom as we journey through the misty glens.
Horses Across the Land
My life may seem ordinary, but my work echoes a history far older. Horses, as you all know, are more than just beasts of burden. We are woven into the fabric of life itself, across lands and across centuries. In 842, across the rolling hills of Britain, and further afield, you would have seen our cousins pulling war chariots and carrying messengers, hauling goods through bustling markets, and racing on windswept plains. Our strength and endurance are a testament to the close bond we've shared with humans since time immemorial.
In these turbulent times, we provide much more than mere labour. Horses are a symbol of resilience, a living reminder of life's continuity. We witness the rise and fall of kingdoms, the shifting tides of power, yet we continue, unwavering in our service, forging paths for generations to come.
News from Afar
I am not one for gossiping, but a journey from the south brought news that made the air shimmer with anticipation. News of King Athelstan, a warrior of fierce strength and renowned for his wisdom, unifying England after years of struggle and bloodshed. He speaks of forging unity and peace, building upon the legacies of those who came before him.
From whispers among our humans, Athelstan is known to favour horses, calling them the embodiment of his kingdom's future. This resonates deep within my heart. Even across the miles that separate us, his ambitions remind me of the unbreakable bond between humans and horses, our destinies forever entwined.
The Art of Ourselves
You might be surprised to know that artists have been celebrating our kind for generations! Throughout 842, the art of carving and weaving blossomed across many lands. Imagine beautiful tapestries depicting mythical creatures like Pegasus, a symbol of flight and freedom, a symbol that unites all those who have gazed upon the sky and felt the pull of the unknown. And sculpted in wood, marble, and stone, you'd see warriors riding strong steeds, representing both power and the bonds of trust that forged great armies.
And yes, you guessed it - these pieces of art show us as we are: magnificent creatures, strong yet graceful, tireless in our dedication. These glimpses into the human imagination reveal our essential role in their world, an integral part of their lives and legends.
Looking Ahead
My world may be filled with the familiar routine of field work, but it’s a routine that is built on a legacy of strength and adaptability. I watch with anticipation for the future, for the coming seasons that hold promise of growth, warmth, and renewal. In this year, 842, my heart is full of hope for a peaceful future, for strong bonds to continue shaping our destiny.
As a faithful friend and steadfast companion, my story continues to be woven into the tapestry of human history. This is our world, a world we share with an unbreakable thread of mutual respect and reliance. So until next time, remember, even the smallest step forward on the road to peace is worth celebrating! And who knows, maybe the winds will carry news of grand adventures for horses in the coming years…
See you all next month!
Emma Hayfield, Aberdeen www.equiworld.org
