Why I Adore Horses: A Journey of Resilience and Passion

I have always adored horses. Even today, I dream about having a horse that would live in my garage.

A Childhood Memory

My earliest vivid horseback riding memory dates back to when I was just six years old. I was with a group of kids, and all the horses got spooked. My horse bolted through the woods. I can still remember that tree branch and my inevitable fall. To make matters worse, no one knew where I was until a counselor finally found me.

I was carried out of the woods.

From that point on, my love for riding grew. I rode during vacations and constantly urged others to join me. When we moved to Atlanta, I began trail riding at local barns. I couldn’t get enough of it. It was an exhilarating experience, unlike any other.

Discovering a New Passion

About eight years ago, I made a significant commitment to my passion. I started riding 3–4 days a week. It felt like a fresh start in my life. Along the way, I learned the basics of grooming, saddling, bridling, and barn etiquette.

I began taking lessons to refine my skills. A couple of years into my journey, I had a fall that resulted in a very mild concussion. My inexperience played a major role in that incident. Thankfully, my injuries were minor, but my fear was significant. It wasn't related to my Parkinson’s.

The Impact of Fear

Fear can be a significant barrier. Yet, it didn’t stop me from riding; it only kept me from cantering until about two weeks ago. After moving to Charleston six months ago, I immediately started searching for a trainer. It took some time, but I found Ashley Hickman and resumed lessons.

At my first lesson, we started trotting. Suddenly, Ashley shouted, “Are you ready to canter?”

I responded, “Okay.” And it happened. In that moment, I felt like I soared above myself.

Life is Unpredictable

You might call it impulsivity, likely a symptom of Parkinson's disease. But to me, it makes perfect sense. Some may call it crazy. After all, I have Parkinson’s, so why would I take such risks?

Because I can.

Finding Strength in Challenges

Through my experiences, I've learned that courage comes from facing our fears head-on. Riding not only provides an escape but also offers a way to confront personal challenges. It is important to find something that ignites a fire within you. Whether it’s riding or another passion, engaging in activities that bring joy is essential.

As I navigate through my journey with Parkinson’s, I realize the importance of connection. It’s about socializing with others who are also living with this condition. Connecting with fellow riders has been especially fulfilling. We share stories, offer support, and inspire each other to keep pushing forward.

Encouragement for Others

You don’t need to ride horses; you just need to do something. It’s about facing our fears, finding a mentor, and engaging with others. We must take care of ourselves both physically and mentally. I speak from experience when I say that my drive to focus on something beyond my disease is essential.

Sometimes, the path is rocky, and I fall off the horse—figuratively speaking. However, I strive to "Keep F'n Going." Embracing challenges helps me maintain my spirit and resilience.

The Rewards of Riding

Horseback riding offers unique benefits. It builds physical strength, enhances balance, and improves coordination. These elements are especially valuable for those with mobility issues or balance challenges linked to conditions like Parkinson's. As we ride, we engage different muscle groups, which contributes to overall physical fitness.

Additionally, riding can boost mental health. The calmness of being around horses and the rhythm of riding provide an excellent outlet for stress relief. Many riders describe a sense of peace when among horses.

Moreover, it fosters a sense of accomplishment. Overcoming fears like cantering or jumping can offer significant emotional rewards. Especially for someone battling an unpredictable disease, these small victories become powerful motivators. They remind us that we are more capable than we often believe.

At the heart of it all, embracing life is crucial. One must remember to laugh, seek joy, and appreciate the little moments. Life is unpredictable, but there's beauty in this unpredictability.

In summary, pursuing your passions, whatever they may be, can lead to hope and strength amid challenges. Embrace your fears, connect with others, and find activities that make you happy. The journey is what matters, and every step forward is a testament to resilience.

So whether you're on horseback or embarking on a new adventure, take those steps boldly. Together, we can navigate this journey and inspire others along the way!

Remember: We can always rise again, no matter how many times we stumble.

---wix---