Mocca Knows
In my September newsletter, I mentioned being invited to write and narrate my poetry and poetic prose at The Shape of Change International Art Symposium at Ninovan Horse Sanctuary. The event celebrated transformation, embracing change and coexistence, themes that resonate deeply with me, particularly given my lifelong connection with horses.
Ninovan does wonderful work in providing a sanctuary for horses, offering them safety, care and the opportunity to live with dignity and compassion, along with education in horse welfare. The symposium invited art to this world at Ninovan.
Unfortunately, a fibromyalgia flare meant I had to withdraw from the spoken-word performance, which was very disappointing, as I'd been really looking forward to sharing my work.
However, the words remain, and I thought I'd share one of the pieces from my original script with you.
Mocca Knows is a tribute to Ninovan and the horse that started it all.
Welcome to my world of words...
MOCCA KNOWS
Well, gather round, all humans,
I’ve something to say.
And frankly, I’ve earned it,
Living life this way.
For I am Mocca,
And I’d like to explain.
How one little horse,
Caused a whole lot of change.
I was standing abandoned,
On a hot summer’s day.
No food and no water,
Not much fun…I’d say.
I was hungry, neglected,
And looked quite a fright.
When along came a woman,
With her dogs in sight.
She searched for my owner,
She asked far and wide.
But nobody came,
To stand by my side.
She thought she would find me,
A nice home to stay.
Ha! ….That was the plan,
It didn’t quite go that way…
Because I rather liked her,
And I liked the food.
And frankly, the situation,
Was really looking good.
A field. A safe place,
Regular feeds.
Cuddles. Attention,
Everything a horse needs.
And when she suggested
I might move along.
I gave her a look that said,
“I think you are wrong!”
And that, dear humans,
Is how it began:
One horse. One woman.
One slightly flawed plan.
For I stayed. And she learnt.
And then others came too.
Some frightened and broken,
Some nervous and blue.
Some carrying scars,
From the lives they had known.
Until Ninovan slowly…
Became our sweet home.
I’m the first of the rescued,
The start of it all.
So naturally, newcomers,
Must answer my call.
They arrive looking nervous,
All wide-eyed and tense.
I say, “Welcome to Ninovan.
You’ll soon learn it makes sense.”
I’m quiet and gentle,
Trustworthy too.
Scratch in the right place,
Give attention on cue.
I know how to behave,
When visitors come.
Especially the children,
They’re my favourite ones.
Though I couldn’t eat a whole one!
Children come curious,
With questions galore.
Then visit the others,
And discover much more.
They notice our scars,
They ask where they’re from.
And slowly they learn,
We’re not just for fun.
We have feelings and fears,
Bad experience from past.
When we’re treated right,
We learn to trust, at last.
We gain health and we heal,
We slowly grow strong.
Where patience and kindness,
Should have been all along.
When people take time,
To understand what we need.
Something changes in them,
And that’s where we lead.
While all this learning,
Is important and wise.
I should mention the treats,
Are a welcome surprise!
So look where its led us,
From a horse in distress.
To a sanctuary filled,
Where horses can rest.
We’re watered and cared for,
Given plenty of hay.
To keep pasture sweet,
Poo’s picked up each day.
Yes, they pick up our poo!
Now honestly, humans,
That deserves some applause.
That’s love and devotion,
Beyond any clause.
So here we celebrate,
Ten years down the track.
And I’m pleased to report:
I’ve not looked back.
So here’s to Ninovan,
And all that we’ve grown.
To every rescued horse,
Who now has a home.
To the people who care,
And to those who learn.
To every small kindness,
That helps a heart turn.
As for me? I’m staying...
Now, if anyone needs me,
I’ll be over there accepting congratulations.
You’re welcome!
Mocca x
Sally Somerton - Island Writer
©sallysomerton2026
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