HORSE: a large domesticated mammal with solid hooves and a flowing mane and tail used for riding, racing and pulling loads.*
I’d argue that definition falls far short. A horse is beauty, majesty, spirit, strength and compassion. That’s not just who they are. They also empower this within us.
I’m grateful to have been born into a life with horses. I have a photo of Mom holding me up in the saddle, less than a year old. The gentle giant, Silver, and I become fast friends. Beyond that, Silver would become my teacher.
Patience was lesson one.
The old saying about leading a horse to water? Well… If you’ve never had a horse laugh at you, I promise, it’s a real thing. They have moods, humor and love. Horses possess an uncanny ability to read you. Whether it’s to challenge or empathize, they make you better.
New horse, new lessons. My pony? Definition of stubborn. My quarter horse? Hated sitting still. Adopting a pair of yearling wild mustangs? A whole new book. From taming to haltering to breaking, the journey of trust, respect and learning to communicate built bonds that transcend all. Brandy is now 32. She still acts like a teenager, annoyed by my presence. She makes faces, then follows me around for walks and cuddles.
In my youth, I didn’t appreciate those lessons. But now, I clearly see how horse people are different. Tough but compassionate. More confident and resilient. Looking at my older patients that still ride, they just keep going. They’re active and happy and strong. A lifetime of giving, that’s a horse, even after they’ve gone.
I have yet to experience a day without one. I’m not sure what that would be like. For the bond with a horse is deep, like a kinship of souls. That’s why I love supporting organizations such as Horses-N-Heroes of Marion County, a mentoring experience for young girls. And the Retirement Home For Horses in Alachua, because they, like us, deserve care and respect until the very end. A bond with a horse is like none other, one I hope more people have the chance to experience.
"Whether it’s to challenge or empathize, they make you better." Dr. Laura McChesney, D.C. Momentum Rehab and Chiropractic.