Free Writing Workshop - 1/21/25

Poem: A Blessing by James Wright 

Years ago, I went on a farm sanctuary tour.  They had two ponies like in the poem.  One loved me very much instantly and followed me around her enclosure and even tried to leave with me.  She was so sweet.  I had never connected with a pony like that before.  I have always loved animals but this was a newer experience for me.  To feel that much instant love from a stranger.  

I didn't feel a lot of love growing up.  Not from my family. Nor from my peers, teachers, or neighbors.  Childhood was extremely isolating.  We had pets but I never got that instant bond with them.  Not like with the pony years later.  Not like with my rabbit Kerimit, who is 10 years old now. 

Kermit was actually a lot like that pony.  The second I entered his room at the shelter he got so excited to see me.  The shelter workers told me not to touch him and that he was mean and bit.  I had way more experience with rabbits than they ever will so I ignored them.  It was love at first sight for us both.  And Kermit has never bitten anyone.  He has been by my side unconditionally since that day and I just love him so much. 

I wonder if I could have adopted that pony if we would have created the same type of bond.