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DECEMBER 2006 • VOLUME 16 • © HORSES For LIFE™ Magazine A brother and sister had made their usual hurried, obligatory pre-Christmas visit to the little farm where dwelt their elderly parents with their small herd of horses. The farm was where they had grown up and had been named Lone Pine Farm because of the huge pine, which topped the hill behind the farm. Through the years the tree had become a talisman to the old man and his wife, and a landmark in the countryside. The young siblings had fond memories of their childhood here but the city hustle and bustle added more excitement to their lives, and called them away to a different life.
The old folks no longer showed their horses, for the years had taken their toll, and getting out to the barn on those frosty mornings was getting harder but it gave them a reason to get up in the mornings and a reason to live. They sold a few foals each year, and the horses were their reason for joy in the morning and contentment at day's end. As they prepared to leave, the young
couple confronted the old folks. "Why do you not at least dispose
of 'The Old One." She is no longer of use to you. It's been years
since you've had foals from her. You should cut corners and save
so you can have more for yourselves. How can this old worn
out horse bring you anything but expense and work? Why do you keep
her anyway?"
The old man looked down at his worn boots, holes in the toes, scuffed at the barn floor and replied, " Yes
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