True

With a horse named “Bay Rum”, it all began,
For one special young man, by the name Cunningham.
Gary knew in his heart that dreams would unfold,
He believed in the magic of possibilities untold.

He was sure somehow, by listening inside,
Intuition was there, and would be his guide.
Do right by others, do right by you,
That was the way Gary learned about “true”.

Across the green fields of his family home,
Many hours were galloped and skills were honed.
Off to the shows, lots of miles on the truck,
Many lessons were learned about hard work and luck.

Vancore saddles and Pendleton shirts,
Just a few trademarks of his Snaffle Bit work.
Lynden Snaffle Bit Champion twice in a row,
The result of determination, and wet saddle blankets you know.

He traveled the land, searching wide-open spaces,
Touching countless hearts in all of those places.
California, Arizona, Montana, to name just a few
Green hillsides, lots of cattle and skies so blue.

So many mentors, heroes, and friends
Shaped Gary’s life, and future plans.
For a time a trainer, for a time a judge, too
He left no stone unturned in the equine pursuit.

Cutting quickly became Gary’s favorite sport,
Pure athleticism and challenge for rider and horse.
Weekend cuttings and big aged events
He showed and won many, and knew what they meant.

Always giving to others, of his time and support
Kindness was the currency he would always afford.
So quick to smile and find the right words to say
Gary was a friend unequalled, in every way.

We’re gathered today to remember with pride,
The bond that we had, and felt strongly inside.
Gary’s wisdom and faith, the light in his soul,
All gifts to us given, we took such pride to know.

You loved all of this, the horses, cattle, and friends,
It was where you belonged, no doubt, amen.
And so it goes Gary, this Cuttin’s for you,
To a Son, Brother, Uncle and Friend, so True.

by ©Denise Hill