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A Word from Nigel

ζ­ε–œη™Όθ²‘!
February 17, 2026
A Word from Nigel

This is Nigel.

Nigel is a horse.

More specifically, Nigel is a feral stallion responsible for a herd living on a windswept beach in northwest Borneo. His is not an easy life, but then easy lives are hard to come by in this part of the world.

(Sometimes he forgets to be feral and comes by for snacks.)

Nigel would like to wish you all a very happy Year of the Horse. And while you’re here, he would also like to dispense some equine wisdom to ensure a fruitful and prosperous 2026 for all.

First, he informs you that horses are all about power, speed, and run, run, run. Thus, you may expect a busy year, perhaps even a hurtling year, so be sure to keep a hand on those reins (a light hand, if you please).

Second, he cautions that horses are prone to injury and are abysmal at self-care. He advises you to deliberately take the time to heal, balance and reflect. He himself favours the shade of a sea hibiscus for such practices, but suspects you’ll have your own spot.

Lastly, he reminds you that horses are deeply social creatures with strong bonds built through mutual grooming and respect. Therefore, he urges you not to neglect your herd. Share the shade, look out for one another, and run as one when trouble comes.

And now, if you’ll excuse him, Nigel has a mare he needs to see.

Happy New Year! ζ­ε–œη™Όθ²‘!

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Laura Rikono

Laura Rikono lives in Malaysian North Borneo. Once a marine scientist, she met a tribesman who wooed her with wild fishing trips in the shadow of a lilac mountain. They settled down and had children, who were far more interesting than fish. Her stories are sci fi and fantasy grounded in the natural sciences.

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Share the shade, look out for one another, and run as one when trouble comes.

Wise words for our times. Thanks, Nigel.

Kung Hei Fat CHoi, Nigel. Feral stallions also often adopt orphan foals and not kill those of a rival as too often reported. They “husband”. Like my Rebbe who adopted a newborn mule. Tho he is a gelding he is herd leader.

If I was a feral stallion, I’d want to be Nigel. Alas, I’m too domesticated.

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A Word from Nigel