Why Horses?
Because They’re HONEST — How They Feel is What They DO
Horses have three qualities that make them naturals at guiding people toward more effectiveness in the world
Powerful Non-Predatory Mammals
Their existence for 55 million years has depended upon their ability to sense the intentions of anyone in their environment. As prey animals, they know that if they make a mistake, they’re dinner. By learning to understand their ‘language’ and reactions to us, we are able to reconnect with our own inner landscapes and often discover states that we have long since buried. Another key characteristic of horses and why they are so valuable as catalyst for change, is that they base their responses to us on trust without judgment – rather than taking sides based on like or dislike. Their preference is peace, safety and harmony for the herd as well as for themselves. They deal with reality as they see it – without reservation.
It is an honor to be trusted by a creature who is so discerning.
The Lack of Hidden Agendas
Horses let us know EXACTLY how we make them feel . Safe, not safe. Asked or told. Attuned or not. Their perception of who is safe and who isn’t – is based on how honest, present and congruent we are with them.
If we allow them to express themselves, they will. They are delightfully unself-conscious and never hide behind the masks we have come to view as ‘normal.’ As powerful, non-predatory animals — they do not manipulate or strategize, nor do they ever take advantage of fear.
In addition — if we allow them to express themselves,
Horses don’t care where you live or where you come from, they care about how you are with them right now. They teach presence, honesty and cooperation
Transparent Trust
While they are ALWAYS scanning for danger, they are very willing and able to cooperate with us. On one hand, they move fast in response to something they perceive as a threat. On the other, they can be very affectionate and partner with us in ways that would be unthinkable to most prey animals.
War horses have carried us into chaos on the battlefield — and home. Police horses will ‘hold the line’ to control an angry mob and ranch horses can learn to work cattle no matter how big or uncooperative the herd may be, all because they trust their riders.
We come to understand that the only real way to ‘harness’ and direct a horse’s tremendous strength and agility is to be fair, balanced, consistent and respectful, In other words, to be trustworthy. It’s up to us to do that.
Are these not qualities we aspire to develop in ourselves and what we want in our leaders?