3177. A pet pony © Bruce Goodman 16 April 2025

Elaine was twelve years old and wanted a pony. She had seen them on television. Someone she had talked to on social media had a pony and Elaine had seen a photo of her friend riding it. As part of her home-schooling Elaine’s use of social media was strictly monitored. Perhaps, suggested Elaine, I could get a pony for my birthday, or Christmas. It would teach her how to take care of animals. It would teach her to love nature. She would exercise it and feed it hay. It would teach her responsibility. But her parents were adamant in their refusal. And yet, her parents were great advocates of care for the environment. That is why they lived on a river boat. Contact Author Back to Index Next Story Previous Story