On the 17th December 2005, our family would travel for 3 and a half hours
to the nearest horse equipment auction. You see, we drive our horses and
were looking to buy some more equipment. My daughter Meggie of course
would have to come with us, as the saying goes, wild horses would not have
kept her away. During the morning, Meggie kept disappearing off with her
uncle and aunt and where did we find her? Attached to a pen where Billy stood.
He looked terrified, all the people hustling and bustling passed, trying
to reach into his pen to give him a pat.
I was stopped in my tracks
as I approached Meggie who was standing at the back of Billy's pen.
He never took his eyes off our Meggie, he followed her everywhere. We had
not come to auction to buy a horse, Meggie was told. That
did not deter her, she knew somehow it was fate that Billy had to and would
be coming home with us. That he did, although physically small, what a huge
character and personality he had, always nudging you ever so gentle, of course.
The fun and frustration we had in those first few hours and days trying to
get a coat that would actually fit you.
The instant bond between
Meggie and Billy was unbelievable. EVERYONE that met him just could not believe
his nature and oh-so-apparent love for Meggie. He followed her everywhere
and I mean everywhere, even the little girls' room if he could.
Meggie had so many plans
for him. She was going to gentle him to drive a small cart, she had planned
so much for the both of them. She was going to take part in our driving clubs
events, to ride him over the golden sands on the beach with the wind running
through Billy's and Meggie's hair. She told him her deepest secrets and her
greatest of wishes, all her hopes and dreams. Everything revolved around
Meggie's lad.
How cruel that he was snatched
away so suddenly, so unfair, his whole life in front of him to run freely
among the meadows, to run on the beach, Meggie's favourite place. Only God
above knows why he needed to take Billy back into his own herd so
soon.
Billy, whilst you were only
with us 11 weeks, you have left the biggest hole in all our hearts. Somehow,
someday, we will meet again. Until that golden day, run free, our sweet boy,
through the meadows, over the sands, we will be by your side every step of
the way. Don't worry, we will look after Meggie for you. I've just got one
last request. Can you just ask your lord and master to send us the strength
to live this life without you, especially for Meggie.
Meggie's lad, forever in
our hearts. You are our first thought in the morning and last one at
night. Sleep tight, wee fellow.
Anne &
Meggie