Only days before, the Oak trees were stark and bare. But this spring morning, baby green trimmed their form, the sun giving them a fluorescent glow.

I was driving to work, enjoying the changes spring had brought to the rolling hills, when my head was turned by an unusual sight. Captured by the scene unfolding before me I pulled over. Stepping out of my truck and into the splendor of the day, I settled myself on a fallen fence post and watched the two figures now in full view.

The powerful red stallion is what first caught my eye. He held his head high, his nostrils flared, tasting the spring air. He pranced anxiously, the long grass dancing at his feet. He was led by a stooped old man, dressed in baggy gray, his leathered face etched with wrinkles. The man’s character was as arresting as the stallion’s beauty.

I marveled that with all the horse’s exuberance he did not strain the old man, but pranced patiently along side, minding the slow pace. They stopped and exchanged a pat for a nudge, then with surprising ease the man swung into the saddle. And they were off at a trot.

The man straightened as if gaining strength and energy from the velvet clad muscles rippling beneath him. Picking up speed they fairly flew through the meadow, my heart stopping at the fence as they sailed over it.

Now, I saw a young man sitting high and easy on his electric steed. At an easy canter they wove a thread of life through the Oak grove tapestry. As one they covered the hills and valleys, jumping obstacles with awe inspiring grace. The ride was timeless as if a dream, but eventually they made their way back to the point of their start. The young man reverently ran his hand along the horse’s now glistening neck and dismounted. Then again I saw the stooped old man, but sweat added sparkle to his wrinkled face.

The two walked off in the direction they had first appeared from. Every now and again the horse would nudge the man, and was rewarded with an affectionate pat. They disappeared into the hills, never for me to see again, but left with me forever is the magic of one man’s visit to his Fountain of Youth.