A Horse's Prayer

Oh My Master,
Do not only feed, water and care for me.
But when the days work is done, provide me with shelter,
a clean dry bed in a stall wide enough for me rest in comfort.
Always be kind to me.
Your voice often means as much to me as the reins.
Never beat strike or kick me when I don’t understand what you want,
instead give me the chance to understand you.
Pet me more often that I may love you and serve you with loyalty.
Always be sure that I am shod that I may serve you without tender feet.
And finally oh my master, when my useful days are gone,
do not turn me out to starve or freeze to death.
Do not sell me to a cruel owner only to be tortured or mistreated.
Instead thou master take my life in the kindest way, to rest forever out to pasture.
And know that when I am in heaven
God will reward you for your kindness & stewardship.
Your Beloved Stead