If we never examine or give thought to our lives or the reasons why we do things, we are at the mercy of our reactions and whims. The subject of thinking, truly giving thought, is on my mind frequently. I don't think we as a species are taught to mindfully think about all that much, … Continue reading Why Do I Ride?
Breathing in the fresh morning air, clear and crisp, a peaceful mareReady to munch on piles of hay, nothing to do but enjoy the dayEasy and slow, all feels right, feelings of safety through the nightA nicker, a whinny, her friends do call, beckoning her to come from her stallTogether they wander through the fields, … Continue reading A Happy Mare
The little blue horse I encountered in the round pen was simply shut down.His eyes alternated between vacant and worried, his body always coiled tight and ready to flee at any moment, yet he stood stock-still as if thinking any wrong move would result in punishment. Perhaps in his past, that was the case. How … Continue reading Making Contact
It's so easy to take life for granted. I'm sitting in a pasture watching steam rise from the backs of grazing horses, and I'm struck by the peacefulness of it all. I'm also struck by how lucky I am that horses are a part of my life like a vein in my arm. How remarkable, … Continue reading Happy Horses
In your most vulnerable moments, are you afraid that if you really show up for your horse, he might not like you? Are you afraid that if you own up to your fear, lack of knowledge, or lack of experience, or other perceived short-coming you might have to give up your horse, and by proxy, … Continue reading A Vulnerable Conversation with Your Horse
Amanda Soper 