In 1998, a small man walked up the driveway of a fledgling ranch for broken horses and hurting kids. In the following hours, I learned the reason for Forrest’s visit; he came to share his own story of rescuing a volatile mustang that none of the previous dozen owners could handle. He’d rescued an untamable horse that—in turn— had rescued him.

He understood the foundation of Crystal Peaks Youth Ranch and, in whatever capacity the Lord allowed, wanted to be a part of it. Season after season, he worked with children, horses and facility projects.

With the passage of time, Forrest’s body waned. Although his abilities, strength and health diminished, his desire to ‘help,’ did not. As evidence of this truth, he journeyed to the ranch to ensure that our equine family had water… EVERY day… for nearly two decades! Finally, the day came. Forrest made the sad announcement that he was no longer strong enough to fulfill his special ministry to the ranch and the horses he so dearly loved.

I hugged my dear friend close, a man who’d faithfully served at my side from nearly the beginning. Through quiet, shaky sobs he repeated, “I’m sorry. I’m so sorry. I just can’t do it anymore… I’m no longer strong enough… I’m so, so sorry.” On this day, he was leaving the ranch that he’d loved with his life. Deep inside, he knew… he would never see it again. Forrest was going home, to walk out the last remaining days of his life.

On September 21^st, a matter of weeks later, a new colt was delivered on the ranch. Because he was born into our care, he didn’t arrive with a dramatic story or life experience, he just came. The colt entered the world dressed in a sorrel coat with three high white socks and a wide blaze striping his face. His bone structure suggested that he would always be a small horse. Within days his personality revealed that he was kind, impish and playful.
What to name this special little lad swirled through the staff at the ranch. Although a few strong candidates were suggested, they were just not the name. After several days, one of our staff suggested the name ‘Forrest.’ Just the mention of this name made my throat tighten with emotion. Yes, YES! What an appropriate honor for his namesake.