Riding Misty

Though Santa never responded to pleas There was just one gift on my list each year A horse that could run at the speed of light A bold little gal; I never had fear With two high school friends I visited a ranch To ride in 103-degree heat Through the bramble bushes and prickly pears Upon little “Misty” I took my seat The Mustang Adoption Program’s success Sparked ranchers from Tucson, Arizona To give a home to a rust-colored mare Many miles from my home near Daytona Cryptic white markings graced Misty’s neck Looked like words in Native American code “She’s so small,” I whined, seeking to ride fast But no matter, to the desert we rode Even the roadrunners were envious When Misty gained speed and hit her full stride Warp speed! I clung to the saddle horn As Misty passed larger horses with pride My hat fell on a cactus, sweat filled my eyes My life flashed before me, quite a surprise It seemed like she had wings as we flew Don’t be quick to judge a horse by its size I thank Misty often for the ride she gave me She fulfilled my dream and gave me a thrill But on the news today a reporter said Wild horses would now be rounded up and killed I’m so grateful I had the chance to ride A wild horse with spirit and awesome speed But what will become of her ancestors Misty’s now part of a vanishing breed *For Frank's "One Standout Day" contest by Carolyn Devonshire