Turning Home

Nightly copper, she flashed ruby in sunlight
Whispering nickers as her wranglers came in sight.
Her generous, steadfast heart and satin gaits
Convinced riders’ fears and aches to disintegrate.

Endearingly cinchy, of warm arrogant perfection
She preferred, when steered the long way, the other direction.
At most crossroads she tried turning home, going back
Calling for focus and muscle to thwart rider hijack.

We knew her as Little Lady’s cherished best friend
More recently, as sweet Apache’s healing godsend.
She was Natalie’s favorite mount and artistic muse
She was Judy’s beloved trail partner, her pillowy refuge.

Her mission graciously fulfilled, she chose to part
Swiftly leaving the ranch and deeply bruised hearts.
With great resolve, at a profoundly final crossroads
Jasmine turned home, and into our memories she strode.

Jane Sanders 9/15/03