Greetings fellow equines!
My name is Emma, a grey draught mare with a flowing white mane and tail. I call Hayfield, near Aberdeen in Scotland, my home, and I'm delighted to share a snippet of my life in the year 1348.
The year dawned bright and crisp. The first rays of the sun tickled my nose as I munched on hay, a delightful treat after the winter's chill. It's been a rather unsettling year thus far, with stories swirling through the village like the wind through the highlands. They speak of a terrible sickness sweeping through the land, a "Great Death", they call it. It's claimed many a human, leaving villages empty and fields unattended.
Don't worry, my dear equine friends! My human family and I are safe, nestled here in the rolling green hills, our hearts full of gratitude. We work diligently, keeping our farm vibrant. The farmers rely on us to till the fields, plant the seeds, and gather the harvests. We are, after all, the lifeblood of this community.
A Busy Life
It’s not all toil and trouble, of course! Every morning, I get to greet the sunrise with the other horses. We graze in the sun-drenched fields, the dew glistening like tiny diamonds on the blades of grass. We neigh, kick our hooves in joyous abandon, and play games of chase. These simple moments remind me of the beauty of life. We have each other, we have our strength, and we have a purpose. That, in itself, is a cause for celebration.
The air is full of the scent of wildflowers. Their colours, like shimmering gems, paint the landscape in vibrant hues. As the sun sets, painting the sky in shades of orange and purple, we return to the stables, our bodies warm and contented. We're treated to a hearty dinner of hay, oats, and a few extra pats from my humans, a testament to their gratitude for our work.
Tales from the Traveling Tradesman
One sunny day, a man arrived at our farm, a lively, jovial fellow with eyes that sparkled with adventure. He travelled on horseback, his steed a strong chestnut mare named Rose. The man spoke of bustling towns, faraway cities, and grand castles. His tales were a welcome distraction from the grim pronouncements about the "Great Death."
Rose was a captivating sight, with her glossy coat, braided mane, and beautifully engraved saddle. I admired her strength and her graceful stride. She had carried her master over miles and miles of unfamiliar terrain, proving that a horse's loyalty and courage are truly unwavering.
Our human family gathered around Rose and her master, eager to hear about life beyond the highlands. Rose’s master spoke of the different breeds he'd encountered - noble Andalusian horses with their flowing manes, powerful Clydesdale steeds with their feathery feet, and elegant Arabian stallions with their sleek builds. His tales transported us to different worlds, bringing us together as one.
He also mentioned the famous palfrey horses, known for their gentle nature and elegant bearing. These horses were often favoured by the nobles and ladies of the court, as they provided comfortable transportation and added a touch of luxury. Such elegant steeds reminded me that even in this trying year, beauty and grace were never too far away.
New Arrivals
Later that year, several new foals arrived on our farm. They were full of life and curiosity, testing their legs, trying out their teeth, and napping in the sunshine. I, being an elder now, kept a watchful eye over the playful youngsters, teaching them the rules of the field and the importance of working together. Watching these adorable creatures reminded me of the promise of new beginnings, of the continuation of life, despite all the hardships in the world.
Community Spirit
In the weeks that followed, we horses became a lifeline for our community. Farmers who had lost their work animals needed assistance, so we tirelessly toiled in the fields, ensuring crops were planted and harvests gathered. The spirit of unity and togetherness bloomed strong during these dark times. Humans and horses alike realised the importance of cooperation and empathy, a beautiful reminder of the strong bond we share.
Our farmers and our local lord held weekly gatherings to plan and strategise, taking care to ensure that we all stayed healthy. It’s important to take care of ourselves and to listen to those who know best. In those gatherings, we humans and our horses felt a sense of connection, of unity against the shared fears that loomed large in the world. The stories they told us, the news they shared, it helped us understand our world better and find solace in the strength of our community.
Horse Fair Memories
At the end of the year, despite the grim news, I was taken to the annual Hayfield horse fair. It was a vibrant celebration of all things equine. Gathered in a great clearing, were magnificent stallions, graceful mares, and sturdy work horses, their coats shining with good health, their eyes filled with hope. The human crowd cheered and gasped in awe as these horses strutted and pranced, their coats gleaming in the sunshine. I stood tall and proud, taking in the excitement and camaraderie. It was a reminder that life goes on, even in the darkest of times, and the bond between humans and horses remained as strong as ever.
The fair brought traders and merchants from distant lands, who rode upon noble steeds. Their stories carried a bittersweet reminder - the sickness was not unique to our corner of the world, yet its reach seemed boundless, an endless ocean of sadness and loss. But amidst these heavy tales, we learned of incredible acts of bravery and compassion, of horses helping humans, carrying them to safety, assisting in caregiving. This reassured us. We are strong, loyal, and powerful, and our ability to heal and care for our human companions knows no bounds.
The sound of the human laughter filled the air, as children petted our backs, marvelling at our strength and gentleness. It felt comforting, a reminder that even in the face of adversity, joy still held a place in this world.
A Year's Reflection
As I settle down for the night, I gaze out at the moon, its pale glow painting the hills in silver. I think of the year that has passed, and a quiet pride washes over me. I am just one horse amongst countless others who continue to toil, love, and live. I am proud to play a part in this grand, intricate tapestry of life, a silent guardian in a time of hardship.
This year taught me much, both of hardship and of love, of sorrow and hope. It taught me that even amidst chaos and fear, the human heart holds the potential for kindness and bravery, and that horses are often the silent guardians of this strength. As I dream of fresh meadows, crisp mornings, and the playful hooves of young foals, I know that the next year will bring its own trials and joys. I look forward to it with hope and fortitude, and with a quiet confidence that I will stand tall, with my human friends and fellow equines, ready to face whatever life brings.
Until next time, dear friends!
Your grey mare, Emma
