The Lucky One

I met this weekend with my beloved mounted drill team to talk about the upcoming season’s practices, performances, and latest horse gossip. I hadn’t seen some of my dear friends since our last performance in July (life is crazy these days). These are the women I ride with, we depend on each other not only while in the arena but outside of the arena. These are not just riding partners, these women (and men) are family.

We also talked about kids, work, riding, and of course horses! During those conversations, we talked about Ivan. Many on the team have experienced a loss of a horse so there is sympathy and empathy. I love this group because they totally understand. Some might not agree with all of my thoughts (I am anti-slaughter) but if not all, most think retirement for these senior horses is a wonderful thing. And if they don’t agree, they don’t disagree and start a disagreement.

What I thought odd was they thanked me for what I do. I have had others that have thanked me for what I do.

But I don’t do anything different than anyone else. Most have a cherished senior horse that they keep until the end. So what I do, keeping old horses until their end, doesn’t seem all that heroic or out of the norm.

I’ve had people tell me they can’t do what I do. But they do! Many I know keep their old horses until the end. In my eyes, they are the same as me. I don’t consider it heroic. I consider it a responsibility to these horses. It’s nothing out of the ordinary really, at least in my thinking.

I guess the only difference is that I do step in to take on the senior horses that others have either turned their back on (sorry that sounds rather harsh) or can’t bear to watch them grow old. But for me, it’s an honor and a privilege to be able to take care of these senior horses. It’s a stressful time watching them near the end of their life on Earth. It’s stressful trying to  make sure that ends meet and to make sure that no one has to sacrifice (except for myself).

But in truth. I should be thanking others. I should be thanking those that provide me the moral support to continue. This past week, after losing Ivan, I saw the amount of moral support that helped me get through my shock. I am grateful to all those that sent and thought well wishes.

I am only me. I am not extraordinary. I am simply doing what I think needs to be done. There is a need, so I am doing my best to fill that need. Providing a retirement home for old horses isn’t anything spectacular. For me, it’s just the right thing to do.

I am the lucky one.