RicelandMeadows

March 19, 2017

As I did my chores last night, I strugged with a problem. I worked in the barn and worked out my thoughts. I realized that many times I have worked my problems out while forking manure. My old manure fork handle, the one on the right, has been worn smooth by work and my rough hands. I started using this fork 37 years ago after purchasing it from an old neighbor.

I chose the fork because it has six tines. Horse manure doesn’t fall through it. This is the original handle that came with the fork. I don’t pry with it. I fork with it. I have lifted some heavy loads, but never compromised the wood. The fork was forged from good steel. The handle looks to be made from white oak. It is smaller than the “clunky” handeled, drop forged, junk available today at most farm and hardware stores.

As I cleaned the day’s poop from behind the horses, I was in deep thought. I talked to the horses as if they would answer me at any minute. They didn’t do that of course, but it felt good to tell my troubles to my equine pals. The fork too, was like gripping the hand of an old friend. I toiled easily in the comfort of the warm barn surrounded by my “friends”.

I have to say, by the time the chores were finished, my troubled mind was at peace. I worked my troubles into resolution. I realized that some problems have no solution or perhaps multiple solutions. I came to terms with myself, that in this case, I could not solve the problem. I would have to just move forward, perhaps one day, returning to contemplate this mental struggle again…but for now… I have it handled.