I approach hesitant and nervous. . . .

Mystic!

I approach, hesitant and nervous

The Horse stands waiting patiently

Big Brown Eyes with long lashes

Mystic!

What is she thinking?

She is taller than I am

She is larger, faster

She is wild

I’ve always been hesitant

I’ve always been nervous

But she stands so still

Mystic!

What does she think about all this?

I touch her coat, so smooth

I rub her back with the comb and flick off the dust

She nuzzles my neck to return the favor

And then her eyelids droop

As she experiences the moment

And reminds me to, as well

—Leslie Cox