December 5, 2022
Sister Burton,
My heart is with the children of Lehi as you put it.
I just left a funeral for my cousin Ernie.
I came back to Elko from work in Ely to only mount up and ride again towards Reno to another job site.
What a reminder of the here and now. A reminder of the afterlife. A reminder of the precious atonement.
We will see family again.
I think of the horses I knew as a youth. Horses that had been ridden and out to pasture.
Grandpa Burton and Uncle B Bob would say that they were the best horses. I would see their
sway backs and admire at their tenacity, strength, and great courage. They performed rounding up the herd, hunting, roping, and daily tasks.
Always loyal. Never faltering. Always steady and constant. More to see than with eyes when you look upon a sway back, knowing the long years of riding that leaves the mark of distinguished honorable service.
I and sway back:
{With my hand stretched out a Mustang would smell.
A halter I would fit with only lead rope in hand. Some stamping and high nod of approval.
Up and on I go.
Fitted in the sway back I ride.
No saddle or blanket.
Stirrups to balance, I say nay.
I'm free, I and the sway back I sing.
Echoes choir the reply.
A race the Golden Eagle and I.
Wings to lift and carry away, sway back and I.}
Love you Gussy. Honor you and your sacred calling as a servant of The Lord.
Always and forever.
ie...... ie....................
Pops