The horses that teach us: “She wouldn’t be the rider she is today without him.”

“She wouldn’t be the rider she is today without him.”
My friend spoke these words about his daughter, who spent the last five years riding my aged horse Scrapper.

I felt emotions catch in my throat.
I couldn’t speak.

The truth of his words rung true, not only of his daughter…but of me also.

I wouldn’t be the rider I am today without him.

Some would say that is a bit dramatic.

Others would reason, ‘if not that horse, then another would have taught you.’

But I know I wouldn’t be the rider I am today without him.
No two experiences are exactly alike.
No two people.
No two horses.

And especially not the timing of when and how we both show up.

That is the beauty of this amazing, terrible, wonderful, confusing world we live in.
Thank you for all you taught me Scrapper.
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I recorded a podcast on this tough subject. I hope it helps you.

Episode 105-Older Horses And The Decision To Euthanize