Leading Horses to Water

Inching towards the pool’s edge. Fresh water. Available. Clear and cool. The horse is thirsty. So is the rider. Both are tired needing rest. They stop. Rider slides down. The horse remains in place. Eyes the rider, then the water. The rider tugs the reins toward the water’s edge. Still the horse remains. Stubborn, thinks the rider.

The man walks to the water’s edge himself, kneels, checks the pool’s clarity. Then, leaning over, puts his lips into the water and pulls cool drink deep inside.

The horse shuffles his hooves. Fidgets at the sight of the rider’s long drink. Slowly moves toward the pool and drops his head. Lapping steadily, he slakes his thirst.

In the shade of a tree the horse stands tied to a low branch. The man sits with his back against the tree trunk. They rest. Quietly. Together.

Birds flit in the tree. They perch and sing their calls. Mood is light and horse and rider are calmed.

Finally, both stir. The rider climbs onto the horse and they slowly step out of the encampment. Refreshed and ready for the rest of the journey.

How much leadership did the horse need from the rider? Or was the horse wanting the man to refresh himself first? No ones can tell which the leader and which the follower.

In other circles we are equally unknowing. The kids are agog with the video game. They are hungry but do not let go the controls. Mom is near and beckons them to lunch. They don’t move. The food waits on the counter. The game offers no break to eat. All-consuming of attention both to time and hunger. The food dries out uneaten.

The news anchor reads his script telling viewers of the approaching storm. The dangers seem real and immediate for part of the viewing area. Who is paying attention? Will viewers look out their windows to monitor their own safety? Or will community sirens screeching move them to the basement?

The election is approaching. News stories rife with pros and cons of each candidate’s stand on myriad topics. When asked, the voter demurs and shakes his head; doesn’t know which candidate will get his vote on election day. His wife differs; she is engaged with the topic and berates his indecision. Will they cancel each other out? Or will they combine to support the candidate just barely losing in the polls? Can they make a difference? Will they vote? Or will they slip out on their daily routine mentally noting they will vote on their way home tonight.

The pool is available to each of these players. The food, the water, the voter choice – all awaiting action by the person. But will they? Be of use? Be approached and consumed?

What outcome is to be?

August 10, 2018