To Romeo
My Faithful Companion and Best Friend
As I write this to you, Romeo,
I will try not to cry. I know that you hated seeing me upset. And I also
know that you would always try to make me feel better with either a hug,
a nuzzle, or even a clear jumping course.
We bought Romeo one year
ago from a lady named Jean in Kentucky. I was excited to go and try him out
that day, but when we got there, Jean warned me that he was fresh, free-spirited
and bossy. I was a bit intimidated.
Jean led me into the barn
and down the aisle to Romeo's stall. The second I laid eyes on him, the
intimidation went away. It was almost as if he sent me a message saying,
"It's ok, I won't hurt you.". I was instantly anxious to get on. He was,
of course, perfect and we settled the deal for Romeo to arrive at my barn
in New York in two days.
We showed on the circuit
and made it to HITS and equitation finals in the chja medal. We placed 3rd
out of 21 and I was extremely happy. I felt as if God had sent me an angel
to look after me and make all my dreams come true.
I can't exactly explain the
feeling I got when I was around Romeo. It was greater then anything I had
ever felt. I had the best bond with him and I felt like I was invincible
around him, like nothing could harm me. I loved that feeling, and I was
devastated the day that went away.
On May 28, 2006 around 6:00
p.m., Romeo colicked. Frantic, my mother called the vet and there was sadly
nothing he could do to put Romeo out of his pain. He said that even if we
could get Romeo into surgery, he would die before he reached the equine center.
My mom and the vet let me make the final decision and I just could not let
Romeo spend his final moments in that much pain. I held him as the vet slowly
injected the needle of medication. I whispered into Romeo's ear that everything
would be ok, and that I would see him soon. He said that he believed me and
that he would miss me until we met again. "I'll miss you too," I said outloud,
and I'll never forget the look he gave me.
It soothes me to know that
my trust and bond with Romeo has not been broken. I know that he loves me
still, and I know that he knows that I love him back.
I am now training my green
5 year old warmblood, Style. I have no one else to thank but Romeo for how
far I have come in riding.
I will never forget you,
Romeo. Thank you so much for making me the best I can be. Wait for me, for
we will meet again.
Love you and miss you.
Maddie M.
xoxoxoxo
Romeo 
