I believe that joy should be the foundation of riding, for both horse and rider.  This joy is the result of mutual respect, trust, communication, and lots of fun.

            Just as we teach the horse to be accountable for his actions, so does he hold us responsible for ours.  That means we must be observant at all times–not only of our horse, but of our own bodies, and of all that is happening around us.  We must also understand that the horse is always trying to communicate with us through his behavior.  He asks us questions and makes requests. 

A good riding partnership requires that both the horse and the rider be responsible for each other’s safety.  Many people do not understand that horses do not love us unconditionally as do dogs.  They require us to stretch and grow—to always reach for our highest potential.  They also ask us to become their leaders—to give them guidance in how to live in our world, and keep them safe.  It is only fair that we listen when they try to explain their universe to us.  It is my job to facilitate this process; to translate what the horse is trying to communicate, and why.

            Progress requires growth.  Improving your riding requires that you leave your comfort zone on multiple levels.  Learning to dance with your horse is a rich and amazing process of discovering the keys to one’s own essence, as well as the horse’s.  When you commit to this journey, the horse becomes your guide.  Horses are perfect and honest mirrors, and have a special talent for “pushing your buttons”.   They hold the essential essence of ourselves in trust for us.  When convinced of your sincerity, they will reward you with the gift of their very soul.  As you learn to trust their guidance and discover how to hold your inner truth in their presence, you will discover that you are entering a doorway to Wonder.