Horses Help Us Find Courage

As a riding instructor, my school horse and I are very connected. When a new riding student climbs on, the horse looks to me for advice, guidance, and direction. I know how skilled the rider is becoming when the horse no longer seeks me and begins to listen to the rider.

This is an amazing situation because you can feel the horse begin to trust the rider. I love seeing riders grow and “take the reins.” Something about horses bring out human courage. When riders find their riding skills the horses begin to trust them more and more. Horses are largely known for their flight nature – but more often they exist in a peaceful, relaxed state. When riders get to participate this state with them, true stability takes form.

This weekend two amazing students found their courage and cantered – something I did not plan for their lesson. This was a great moment because I saw how two people explored an unknown situation and boldly accomplished something completely new to them. Watching someone go through that with such triumph is heartwarming and inspirational. It made me realize when you find your courage, you can do anything!

I would love to know about ways you have found your courage in life and how it changed you.