So, I’m reading this book, “Horses Don’t Lie: What Horses Teach us About our Natural Capacity for Awareness, Confidence, Courage and Trust” by Chris Irwin with Bob Weber. Bear with me while I quote a passage from the book. You see things are on my mind and, isn’t it just the syncronicity of life, that always has us reading just the perfect book, or hear just the perfect words, or stumble across just the perfect thing at the perfect time? Well I am reading just the perfect book right now.
“Horses don’t lie-they always tell the tuth with their bodies. There is no separation between what a horse thinks and what it’s body says. People, on the other hand, bluff and pretend and hide”.
“In other sports, if you’re not having your best day, it doesn’t bother your equipment. Your golf clubs don’t care if you slice and your surfboard doesn’t care if you fall off. Horses, however, care intensely. Remember, they are counting on us to provide clearly consistent leadership-we are the ones who are supposed to know what we’re doing…So an equestrian must possess more than physical skill. The rider’s mind must remain constantly focused on the moment-to-moment application of pressure and weight…constantly aware of the surrounding environment, looking for distractions. The rider’s spirit must calmly and confidently project straightforwardness into the horse. We ourselves must possess these skills of the body, mind and spirit so that we can impart to our horses the attributes of impulsion, balance, flexion, focus, awareness, trust, calm, confidence and willingness. I know. This is a tall order“. Mr. Irwin continues to express how we must be (in my words) our own authentic self, true to ourselves and just keep on trying….
“I’ll get better, but right now this is where I’m at and my intentions are honorable”.
Once again, I find a “horse” lesson is one of the best “people” lessons there is.
Meanwhile, back at the barn, there are some possible changes on the horizon; there are definitely many things to think over here in my little land. They are not things I intend to directly address here just yet. At this stage, they are ponderings and possibilities on the horizon. I will think them over, sit with them, feel them, attempt to use the attributes discussed above to know what the best is and to know that whatever may come, “my intentions are [always] honorable”. And if I stray from those intentions, I’m certain my (embarrassing) horse will let me know.
Personal growth doesn’t come from avoiding risk, challenge and stress. We must make peace with it.
“You don’t always need a plan. Sometimes you just need to breath, trust, let go and see what happens”
–Mandy Hale
barnraised 
Best of luck thinking everything through
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Thanks! Lots to think about.
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“Horses don’t lie-they always tell the tuth with their bodies. There is no separation between what a horse thinks and what it’s body says. People, on the other hand, bluff and pretend and hide”….” I wish I could hire a couple of horses 😉 ….I have been thinking about this very issue..dealing with people who are less than honest. I need to hire at least 1 carpenter’s apprentice, someone I can train. I used to think I had a pretty good sense of people’s integrity. Not any more. I am all about looking people in the eye and having an honest conversation..my word is my bond,..a handshake is as good as any written contract…that is how I was raised. times they are a changing… no wonder some of my animal loving friends would rather deal with their pets than other people. Sorry if I took this off on a tangent. I’m not sure how to read people any more 🙂 DM
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I completely understand! What’s that saying, “the more time I spend with people, the more I love my horse (dog…add any animal)”. It’s funny that you got this out of that post. I have been going through some challenging times dealing with people and wishing for more honesty and integrity. It has however made me feel more sure of who I am and who I want to be.
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This is a wonderful post! Very true and inspiring.
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Reblogged this on fourth generation farmgirl and commented:
Hope you enjoy this lovely and inspiring post by the author of barnraised.
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Thank you so much for the reblog. I am honored!
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You’re very welcome! 🙂
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Wishing you clarity during this time.
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Thank you. Lots of things to think about and I love having this outlet to explore my thoughts!
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Love this post. Wishing you all the best as you mull over and ponder the changes that may lie ahead.
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Thank you so much!
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I always am a sucker for horse posts. Thanks for sharing 🙂
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Thank you! 🙂
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I loved this post. Many of the greatest lessons in life I have learned from horses. I constantly try to emulate their honesty. Because of them I am a better human.
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Yes, absolutely. Horses are such amazing teachers even if we don’t always like the “lesson”. I also feel that I’m better because of my work with them.
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