Tomorrow is the day I will draw names for the book Sacred Spaces, and to enter, just leave a comment on this post or the original one.
Today, though, I want to talk briefly again about our stories. Since we are bloggers, we are constantly telling them in a day to day style, but the book, Sacred Spaces, asks the reader to create a bigger story about ourselves and our horse, a fairytale version of what our story could be.
But as I was writing mine, it morphed into a fairytale story of Tumbleweed and Foxy.
Unlike Cowboy, who was an orphan foal omega who didn’t need the herd, but needed me, Tumbleweed was popular in the herd and loved his Foxy. In fact, they all love Foxy, and she is a horse to study and emulate (a theme in another section of the book.)
So, the question arose in my mind, How do I write this story with a horse who doesn’t seem to need me?
I don’t know the answer yet, but I got a glimpse of what it might look like this week if I connect with him on that deeper, spiritual level he, and I assume all horses, desire.
But, the fact is, this story will probably be more about how much I need him, not vice versa.
I need this journey with Tumbleweed right now. I need a new story. I need everything it will take to fulfill the story.
Im writing it now, in my head, then I’ll put it down on paper.
How about you? What is your story with the horse you have today? What is the fairytale you are writing?
Well since I own only 2 senior horses, my fairy tale would be to turn back time to those wonderful rides I had on Gussie... or Beamer...
ReplyDeleteWell, I didn’t expect that answer. It both breaks my heart and makes me appreciate even more the new beginnings of this fairytale with Tumbleweed. Perhaps, you will make it down this way someday and ride Tweed as a surrogate for Beamer. Your comment reflects the transience of these moments. One day we are creating the story, and another, looking back with gratitude. I do believe this is my last fairytale, and you’ve just added a plot twist to my “story.”
DeleteHmm. Interesting question. If I was being sassy, I’d say I’m writing a story where winter doesn’t come so I can keep riding, lol.
ReplyDeleteFor both my horse I’m working on a softer relationship. One that doesn’t rely on muscle strength but on muscle control and clarity. It’s easy to clamp my legs or tighten the reins. It’s more rewarding and much harder to have presence and feel.
I like that element. I will steal it for mine. Everyday will be sunny and warm. 😆
DeleteI am like you using too much muscle, too much aid. She breaks down different methods of conversation styles, and I am “The Parent” one-way with heart. The goal is a loving conversation, 2 way, with heart or heart-to-heart.
I agree, the second is more rewarding, but much harder. It’s even hard for me to envision it.
I am unsure how to answer your question. I think in part, because after decades of trying I am not capable of the comfort and connection with our horses that I seek. Especially at this stage of my life and horse situation/s.
ReplyDeleteSo I guess, complete trust/comfort and true connection would be my horse fairytale.
p.s. if you asked me this a over a decade ago (and beyond) my fairytale would be riding bareback on an sandy shore and splashing in the ocean. Just like most every horse lover.
Do our fairytales have to include riding our horses? I interviewed the director of the documentary film, Path of the Horse, some years ago, and she opened my mind to a whole new concept that did not necessarily involve riding. It is the path I chose for Beautiful Girl, because she did not seem to like it. A few nights ago, on a cold, dark, starry evening, I was walking to the barn and heard a nicker for me. It was hard to see who it was, but the silhouette looked like Bee. I went out to her, and it was her. We spent a few minutes communing. I wondered, have I given her a good enough life as a non-ridden equine? I think the answer is yes. She was one of my most important “fairytales” and the name of this blog, but our journey did not proceed as you’d think. Before my dad died (he used to follow this blog quietly) he told me it was his wish for me to ride Bee again. It makes me tear up thinking about it, because it is not something I can give him and it is no fault of mine or hers.
DeleteSometimes, fairytales surprise us, and in this case, Bee taught me that the relationship with our horses is more important than the worldly “accomplishments.” Thats a fairytale in itself. On the other side of this life, I’m sure my dad understands that now, too.