I have been a firefighter for 16 years and have always worked in busy stations. This experience, although great professionally, contributes to the development of a calloused attitude. A little over a year ago I joined Saddles in Service with a few goals in mind: learn new skills, establish a healthy outlet, and immerse myself in a positive environment. In one of my first lessons, Brandon taught me that horses have a small frontal lobe and cannot choose to dislike the rider for a subjective reason. If the horse were to have a negative reaction it is likely due to the energy that is being projected and it is the rider that needs to reset and reengage at a calmer level. Simply doing this yields an affirmative response.
This simple lesson has made me more aware of my actions and taught me to pause and calm down before proceeding. While away from the ranch, either at work or home, if I act in a way that would cause a horse to turn away, feel nervous or defensive I tell myself “The horses wouldn’t like that.” I regularly employ these skills that I have developed to remain calm and relaxed.
The setting at the ranch is a positive environment that encourages awareness, development, and accountability. This has been a healthy and constructive alternative to more traditional and sometimes convenient outlets. In the time I spend at the ranch each week, I find myself forgetting about the various stressors that may otherwise be on my mind. The intuitiveness of the horses, learning a new task, and the remote setting require my undivided attention. After each session, I am aware that I’ve had a break from life’s worries and the stressors that at times can be overwhelming.
I am grateful for the time and attentiveness that the wranglers volunteers. Their patience and willingness to share the knowledge they possess is essential to the success of the program.
I have only encountered positive attitudes and openness which is inspiring and compels me to contribute in any way I can. I am motivated to leave the ranch better than I found it. Saying “thank you” isn’t enough to show the gratitude I have for this opportunity.
