The Journey

Up a narrow dirt road
With pebbles and rocks,
Ruts and holes
Where the horse suffers  
And the wagon complains
Weight shifting
Squeaking, straining
In jerks and stumbles
Over the hill
Down the road
Dust barely unsettled
Sun loaming high
Slow progress is made
As the journey continues
Finally familiar sights
As home draws near
The pace picks up
The load seems lighter
As anticipation grows
Like wildflowers
In the meadows
And the one who
Has been minding the house
Waits not knowing
When or if
The return will come
To pass,
But fond hearts will swell
At the sound
And blossom with joy
At the sight
Love reunited with hugs
Held tight and kisses
While the steed and the wagon
Finally find rest
One in the pasture
The other beside the barn