​I'm Not Your Old Horse

​I'm Not Your Old Horse
By Gaye DeRusso
 
Great horses take many years in the making. When your horse finally turns into that great trail horse that is dependable, controllable and you both understand each other so well, you forget all the years and hard work that it took to get him or her there.
 
That’s right we forget. We forget that the horse did not understand us and it took them a long time to figure out what we wanted and what their job was. But they finally figure it out and then you have many years of safe, fun trail riding. 
 
Then the day finally comes that they cannot do it anymore and you have to retire them. So, you start your search for your next buddy. But so much has changed in all the years you spent with your older great horse. 
 
Prices have tripled, you are now older and maybe not in as good of shape. Your confidence was great on your old horse but when you are trying new ones, you are quite nervous. 
 
As you try and steer them and give them cues of what you want, they don't understand you and therefore do not do what you want. It’s not them, it’s you. Your old horse figured out what you wanted even though you gave the wrong cues. These new horses your trying, don't understand what you want, because you are giving the wrong cues. It’s not them it’s you. 
 
One horse after the other that you go look at, disappoint you. Nope not what I am looking for. And then you think you will never find another horse like your old horse. And your right, you won't because you made that old horse. He didn't come like that, through time and making mistakes you came to understand each other over the years. And you forgot all the frustrating times you had in the process. The mistakes you made. 
 
If you want to have a great horse, you have to understand that no matter how good the horse is, you have to be able to communicate and understand each other. You have to get use to each other’s emotions, fears and physical abilities. And that takes time. 
 
So, no you will never find a horse like your old horse. You have to make another one. But you have to understand, you are not the same as you were 15 years ago, so you may need a better trained, calmer and slower horse.  You may need some lessons, so you learn how to do things correctly. It will only help you make a better connection to the new horse and make the process go more safely and smoothly. 
 
No two horses are the same even if they are related. Sure, you can have your horse’s baby, but still, it will not be exactly the same. 
 
You must come to the realization that it will take time and work to get another great horse. It is a journey. Embrace the journey. 
 
Because I am not your old horse.