What can your say when you lose such
a young friend that you came to care so much for?
In July 2008 Girlfriend (right) gave
birth to an unexpected bundle of joy whom came to be known as Tula. It
was not long afterward that she started digging herself deep into all of our
hearts. She was a joy and a bit of a terror, but we loved her just the
same for she exhibited grace, strength, and courage greater than that shown by
many other animals or humans.
As Tula grew it was clear that she
had some problems. Both of her front legs were bowed outward. In our
attempt to correct this problem she was placed in special boots and later under
went surgery on both legs. It was in these times that her greatest
attributes shown through so brightly reminding her caretakers that neither strength,
courage, nor grace can be determined by the size or age of a creature.
Tula
was fortunate and made a wonderful recovery. Once the surgery was complete she wasted no time before trying out her improved legs and took every opportunity she
could to race through the paddock and jump around.
Unfortunately, her story came to an
end as all must. At only five months old Tula was stricken with a case of
colic. Everything that could be done for her was but, it still was not
enough. With her mother by her side she quietly passed away long before
she had a chance to live a full life.
Although her life was short she brought love and hope to all whom knew her and reminded those at Godspeed
Horse Hostel why we work so hard to save these horses.
Rainbow Bridge
Just this side of Heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.
When an animal dies that has been especially close to
someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for
all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty
of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.
All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to
health and vigor. Those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong
again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The
animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss
someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.
They
all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks
into the distance. Her bright eyes are intent. Her eager body quivers. Suddenly
she begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, her legs carrying
her faster and faster.
You
have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling
together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain
upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once
more into the trusting eyes of your friend, so long gone from your life but
never absent from your heart.
