Hello fellow equines and horse enthusiasts! It’s Emma here, a grey draught mare from Hayfield near Aberdeen in Scotland, with a mane and tail like spun snow! Welcome to my humble corner of EquiWorld, where I share my insights into the fascinating world of horses through the ages. Today, I’m going to take you back to 975 AD - a time when life was simpler, slower, and the role of horses was as essential as the sun itself.
Now, I must confess that my memory isn’t as sharp as it once was - age has a way of playing tricks on us all. But with a little bit of snorting, pawing the earth, and remembering the tales told by older steeds like myself, I can give you a glimpse into what it was like to be a horse back in those days.
975 AD. Can you even imagine a time when there was no internet, no phones, and no cars? Why, it was as if the world was powered by wind, water, and the sheer strength of horses like me!
Now, in 975 AD, the people in Scotland, much like elsewhere, were busy weaving their lives around the needs of their horses. And it was truly a symbiosis, an intricate dance between horse and man. We were not merely beasts of burden, but vital partners, crucial to their survival and success.
Imagine a world where travel wasn't a matter of jumping in a car and speeding off - the road was a journey, a connection built on the rhythmic pounding of hooves and the strong, steady breathing of a hardworking horse like myself.
Picture fields of barley and oats rustling in the wind, their golden stalks promising a harvest that depended on our strength to carry the heavy plows through the rich Scottish earth. I can almost feel the satisfying crunch of my hooves, the scent of damp soil on the breeze, as we turn the earth over and over, prepping for the promise of the future harvest.
Speaking of harvests, they were truly community efforts back then. You’d see whole villages rallying, all the farmers pulling their wagons, led by sturdy horses like me. Imagine the collective neighing, the rhythmic clatter of wagon wheels, and the vibrant hum of voices exchanging news, laughter, and tales of the day. It was truly a time of community spirit, where humans and horses worked hand in hoof.
And don't even get me started on the festivals and markets! The streets would be a kaleidoscope of colour and bustle, as farmers from miles around converged with their wares, driven by sturdy steeds like myself. Imagine the pungent smell of fresh cheese, the hearty aroma of roasted meat, and the enticing scents of fresh baked bread - it was a feast for the senses!
But even with all this hustle and bustle, our lives weren't all work. We were family, a close-knit herd within a bustling village. You know how we mares are - always with a strong bond to each other and the foals, nurturing and guiding them with a motherly affection that defies words. We spent hours grazing in fields bathed in golden sunlight, feeling the warm breeze through our manes. Evenings found us nestled against the sturdy barn walls, chewing on hay and whispering tales of the day’s adventures to each other. It was a life of contentment, one that pulsed with the rhythm of the natural world and the strength of community.
And the human folk were good to us, understanding and respectful. We knew who our true friends were, and we felt cherished for the contributions we made. And in return, we offered loyalty and strength, always eager to pull our weight and do our share of work, knowing that our labour was helping feed the people and keep the village humming along.
Now, even though 975 AD was so long ago, we still see glimpses of our ancient roots. Today, many horse lovers and enthusiasts have discovered the deep connection between human and horse, and they, too, respect the bonds of companionship, dedication, and partnership. And while life has evolved, horses continue to hold a special place in human hearts, a symbol of resilience, loyalty, and the unwavering connection between humankind and the natural world.
As I trot back to my warm stall, feeling the cool evening air on my back, I realize that even in this ever-changing world, our fundamental relationship remains as strong and timeless as ever. Horses continue to hold their special place, serving as companions, teachers, and vital links to our natural world. So next time you see a horse, remember our rich shared history. We're more than just animals; we're a thread woven into the fabric of your past, present, and future. And don’t forget, you can learn all about that history here on EquiWorld, my dear friends. See you on my next post!
