There was a time when the horse shouldered critical roles in the lives of humans. His service has been “outsourced” to the automobile and other mechanical inventions. Yet he has steadfastly grown in numbers, more breeds have been developed, and his aficionados can be counted in ever-increasing numbers. He plays the role of companion, show horse, trail horse, pet, beast of burden, jumper, sport horse, race horse . . . his popularity continues to grow in all disciplines.

With all this popularity comes the realization that he is a being that needs care and loving attention. He should never be regarded as merely chattel, property to be bartered, sold, traded and discarded. What follows is my rendition of an old-time favorite, greatly shortened and put into contemporary wording. It is my personal version of “A horse’s prayer to his human.”

I hope you like it and take the words into consideration:

Dear Master, please take good care of me and I will give you my heart, my body and my spirit. Consider me yours for all the years of my life.

Every day, please feed and water me, provide dry shelter and clean bedding. Be kind to me, and I will repay you willingly with honest, loving service. I respect the sound of your voice and ask that you speak to me often. It is the gentleness of your speech and the softness of your touch that means everything to me. I will give up my life for you, Dear Master, if you ask it of me.

Use your beloved voice instead of harsh spurs, bits, whips and reins so that I can better understand your lessons. Give me time to comprehend or follow your instructions because I really want to please you. Offer me a signal, touch or kind rub when I grasp your directions and I will do my very best next time.

Consider that I may have an off day or toothache or pain if my performance is not up to par. Always know that I want to do my best for you.

If the day comes and you no longer need or want me, please don’t abandon me or casually sell me. Be kindhearted. Let me live out my life in green pastures or permit me to be the perfect companion for your new horse.