Rescue Me
The sparkle of life has long since left my tired eyes
Years of neglect have brought me here
A steel hand is all that I have felt
The bang of an auction gavel has sealed my fate
The huge steel truck stands before me
But a golden ray of sunshine comes before me
A soft voice whispers in my drooping ears
A gentle hand touches my tired withers
Although I flinch, I do not feel the sting of a whip
Calming words and soothing voice ease my fears 
A halter and lead rope are gently placed on me
Another trailer stands before me now
I am urged to go inside
I struggle with fear and pull back hard on the rope
Awaiting harsh words and whip lashes, I pull harder
But no harsh words hurt my ears
No sting from the whip piercing my skin
I only hear more gentle, soothing words
With fear and trepidation, I step into the trailer
My entire body quivers in fear
A huge mound of fresh, green hay awaits me
At my destination, I am gently led into an enormous stall
With deep, soft bedding
A trough of clear, cool water to drink from
A feed tub of fresh grain awaits me
I peek out my stall door to a pasture of lush, green grass
I wonder to myself, "Is this the Rainbow Bridge?"
The horse in the stall next to me nickers,
"No, it's an equine rescue".

                        Dana R. Hendrix

                      contributed by Cindy