Deep within the swamp, Agwé lives a peaceful life among his family and animal friends, with whom he shares a special gift. That is, until his life is torn asunder and he is driven from his home by the voodoo spirits. Lost and alone, he wanders the...
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It was impossible to wipe the smile from my face as I arrived back east in Big Valley. Truly, the place was a sight to behold. Just as the name implied, this was a spacious, tranquil valley. Miles in length, with countless trees surrounding the perimeter. A gentle creek weaved through the land, which was nestled within the footsteps of Mount Shann to the south and Mount Hagen to the north. Of course, I had gained a first-hand appreciation for the latter during my Olympian training with Bobby Baker.
My trust in the spirits was nearly complete at this point in my journey. Though they had often led me down difficult paths, sometimes even downright dangerous ones, I was at peace with their direction. I knew if I gave each situation my all, I would develop towards my full potential, and often help others along the way. I still could not decipher the full meaning of each vision, but if I had to guess, I was being led to this Big Valley because of the animals that resided within. And my were there ever a lot of them here.
To my delight, one of the first species I spotted was a group of wild horses. How amazing it was to see these creatures in this natural paradise. Grazing on the plentiful grass, feeling the wind flow through their manes as they galloped and played. This was the purest form of freedom I had ever seen. The way that we all deserve to live. Acting on instinct, I found myself unbuttoning my shirt and letting it fall to the earth, along with my socks and boots. My pants and suspenders soon followed, leaving me in naught but my undergarments.
The northern air was frigid against my bare chest, but it made me feel alive. Leaning down, I scooped a handful of crisp mountain water from the creek to my mouth and was instantly refreshed. Slowly, I approached the nearby herd. Upon sensing my presence, their muscles tensed, ready to bolt. I ceased at once.
My way with animals was the gift I had always been most proud of in my life. Not in a boastful way, but more so that I strongly appreciated being allowed to connect with them in the way I could. It was at this moment that I fully realized why I was brought to this beautiful place. I was to be given a chance to further develop my gifts with nature. Perhaps to enhance them to a greater level than I ever had before.
"Okay. You've got this. Trust your instincts. Don't think. Just do," I whispered to myself.
I found myself raising my arm to the front...and whistling. There was nothing new about this, of course. I often whistled joyfully as I went through my day. But never at any point in my life had my whistling sounded like it did in this moment. It seemed to rise from the depths of my soul itself. Peaceful. Almost enchanting. A cascade of notes that fully caught the attention of the horses where they stood.
One by one, the beasts relaxed. And once comfortable, their curiosity grew. The first approached and pressed her muzzle softly into my outstretched hand, allowing me to caress her gently. Others followed her lead, to where I was soon fully encircled by the herd. Each resting their muzzles upon a part of me they could reach, be it my arms, chest, or back. It was a wonderful display of trust. My bayou heart burst with joy as I felt each of their gentle, warm exhales of breath.
