Just a Thought

Looking over the years and thinking about all my experiences with horses, I thought I would share some with you.
As a child, riding a moped thru the bush, approximately l mile to be able to do whatever chores had to be done to pay for my riding lessons.
I galloped through fields and forests while playing "pony express" and "cowboys and Indians".
I remember the fence rails on 5 gallon pails, pretending it was a stadium show arena where I would ride the amazing "Big Ben", (really my little arab mare), over the last jump to win GOLD for Canada and hear to cheers of the crowds...who were actually the cat, dog and numerous barn swallows. The hundreds of hours riding, discovering new trails, to simply lie in a meadow and watch the clouds roll by. My horse patiently grazed waiting for our adventurous ride home. Along the way looking down steep embankments and thinking "how hard could it be, after all, the Man from Snowy River could do it!" I reflect on my past and realize how much my horses have taught me. They continue to be a huge part of my life. Horses have taught me responsiblity, accomplishment, empathy and not to be embarrassed by, or afraid to try new things for fear of making mistakes. As long as I have done the best of my ability and learned that possible mistakes, if made, are quickly forgiven and forgotten.
I have had many converesations with them, and they know my deepest secrets. They have brought many smiles to my face, and in their soft eye, warm nicker and gentle nature have wiped tears from my eye. The horse is truly a noble animal and I feel blessed to be an equine enthusiast.