Ibiyinka Alao

The Horse's Grace

Ca. 1995
24" x 18"
Tempera

Grace is like the black horse
In front of the blue house
Who carries all the blame
And takes the shame
To the still lake
And keeps awake
In wait for the rain
To come and wash away all the pain

Grace does her honest work
And expects no praises
Rather for all she seeks forgiveness
Knowing that everything is nothingness

"The Horse's Grace" exhibits the fascinating strength and confidence that a horse will display in its natural environment. In Ilorin City, you will see many horses that are used as "beasts of burden" in warfare. This horse, however, was seen in front of my house in the country. I supposed it had come from the king's palace. It was unmanned in front of the river with a palm tree pointing to its beauty. This "Being" that exhibited such peace and grace in its natural state astounded me. Even an animal accustomed to serving warriors was much more comfortable in an environment of peace and serenity.

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