He died in the summer
and now there's frost
on the ground.
My beautiful boy with
big Egyptian eyes
rimmed in black kohl.
By day I work, I cook,
I love, I laugh, through
intermittent cramps
of sorrow.
But at dawn
when the horses are fed
I imagine him walking
to me through the frosty mists-
My gallant friend
I miss you.
The mists become
his warm breath.
I take off my gloves
to feel the heat
of his spotted coat.
Kentucky arches his
majestic neck down to
hold me to his chest.
Come in to the barn
let me groom you -
Your brother will be so happy
to see you.
Kentucky's eyes, long ago filled
with hate and anger
Shine on me as they did
during our years together.
There is only love.
