I've always loved horses. I admire them. I've always appreciated their intelligence, their tender personality. All the horses I have ever come across have had these two beautiful qualities, but these same horses couldn't be more different. They are one in the same in kind heart and selfless attitude, but they are all such characters, and individuals just as you and I.

There is one horse in my life who has been around since I was a fragile little thing. I was a terrified child, but I came into the world of horses and horse riding at my local stables, and since then, my confidence has only grown, and it's as much down to him as any of the people in my life who test me, trial me and love me to make me a better person.

He is such a character. As I've gotten to know him, he has quirks and habits like any of my other friends do. When he wants food, he bangs his hoof against the stable door, and he always knocks exactly twelve thirty, lunch time. When he's curious, he perks his ears, and then if something's scary, he shuffles to the side and checks my way to ask if it's safe. When I give him an apple or carrot, he shows how much he loves it by sticking his tongue out to the side, and when he's tired, he sighs, and rests his head on my shoulder.

He acts, and he reacts. I get to see his intelligence constantly. Even though he's mute to me, I always know what he's saying.

He is a beautiful horse from the inside out. He has the softest nose, and the sleekest fur.

He made me grow as a rider and as a person. He showed me tenderness and yet tested my authority. He made me laugh, and his astonishing motivation and endless happiness taught me what really matters in life. His willingness and energy taught me to be obedient, to love those around me and to do what I can and in the best of my abilities. And in his times of crisis, he always trusted me.

Chance was one of a kind, a real character. I could never describe him as anything less than a friend, because no matter how different he is from me, I know he is the one with the most humanity I have ever known any creature to possess. I'll miss you, Chance, your little quirks, and your furry, funny looking smile. And I'll never, ever forget you.

Rest in peace, my little gentleman. There are no words to describe how I feel.