Dead Pony

I am a dead pony or will be soon.

With bones that are failing.

I am no phony -

Growing old, I am now ailing.

*

The future, though dark, is clear.

But I was still trotting along,

And I crumpled alongside cornstalks in rows,

And I thought about the life I chose.

*

The County Fairs

Were a big treat.

Giving children rides

Made me feel complete.

*

But what the heck –

I was just a lowly quarter horse.

But giving those kids a ride

Gave me a purpose, of course.

*

At the end of the day,

I lay down in my stall.

I think of the smiling kids,

And death is nothing at all.