[MR] To All who knew "William" the black percheron war horse...

[al blanche]

At 5:17pm, 18 May 2010,  I put a dear friend to rest. William had been suffering despite the constant pain meds he was receivng for his joints. William had been pivotal in Atlantia's Jousting program but more importantly...a part of me can never be replaced. The circle of life continues... I am just in a rough part of it.....
God Receive will William.... he is a good mount. a good friend....

To my Friends who know me... it has taken some time to even begin to
calculate the lasting effects one of my closest friends has had on me. 
Even now I am having a hard time posting this message.... I wish I
could just detach myself from all of this and function but the absence of
the gentleness and greatness of William is hard to fill.

There are many who have expressed their kindness. I thank you...your
words have comforted me during a very dark time. I have honestly felt
that my world as I knew it was at and end... for the most part it is. I
feed every morning, the first horse I put in his stall was William...
now his door to his stall is closed. I found myself looking for him as
I drive up to the barn...the sleep of my eyes are wiped away and I
realize he is gone...my heart still hasn't let go. It will be a rough
road .... not just for me but for everyone that was graced by knowing
him.

I visit where I laid him to rest... I say several prayers and try to
tell him he will never be forgotten......I really don't think I have to try hard....he knows. He always knew where he stood with me..and I always knew where I stood with him.... .

This message has a secondary value... to everyone who knew us.... we
started something about three years ago...but it wasn't until recently
that I discovered William had been carrying Dukes, Counts, Barons and
Knights from Atlantia on his back long before I even thought of holding
a lance.

He taught me...was patient and continued teaching me how the majestic
vision of a mounted warrior belongs in our world we call the SCA. I
always look for meaning in why things have to happen. For now, I am
certain that my gentle giant who now is running in green pastures...
would only want me to continue with the same never quit attitude that he
has shown me...every time I rode him. Every time.....

To my friends...remember him and never forget... he is truly a
remarkable soul that has touched many and if his presence made you feel
safe... then he has done well by you and by all.

In Obscurum nos fio lux Lucios 
 
With Warmest Regards I Remain ...
Alain de La Rochelle, Lord