I do some of my best thinking in Silk’s stall. Whenever I have a problem, it’s the first place that I go. If my sweet horse is actually occupying her bedroom, I usually just drape my arms across her and lean my head on her. It’s better than an aspirin or a tranquilizer. She knows. She just rests under me, solid as a big red tree.
The funny thing though is that my creative thoughts really flow like crazy when the horses are in the pasture, and I’m alone cleaning Silk’s stall. Sometimes, I have to stop, drop the muck fork and run back to my computer in the house before I forget my latest idea. I’ve started carrying a little notebook and a pen in my pocket when I go to the barn.
I think it’s because Silk is my muse. She creates an atmosphere of peace and understanding in the barn. I don’t get these flashes of insight on Siete’s side. She’s too young and hasn’t had the life experiences that her mama has. There’s some scent of wisdom mixed in with the horsey odors where Silk lives, and it inspires me to reach deeper into myself without fear or judgment. Maybe someday, I’ll win the National Book Award, and I can say that I owe it all to my horse.
11 comments:
Beautiful! Those horses inspire us in so many ways.
Harmony,
Janet
You are so right. Horses and horse stalls are better than a shrink. It's amazing how horses can cure both mad and sad.
And "horse advice" comes complete with inspiration. Doesn't get much better than that!
Having Silk, I know you'll get that National Book Award.
Sigh. I know what you mean. You wrote about it well enough that I felt that feeling without actually being in a stall leaning on a horse. I'll be rooting for the two of you to get that National Book Award.
Looking forward to reading your NBA book!
Thanks, Everyone - After I wrote that line about winning a NBA, I thought, Right, who are you kidding? But I'm trying to teach myself to dream bigger! First, I have to finish the book.
With Silk as your muse you can't miss getting the National Book Award! Can't wait to read your book.
Oh, you remind me of the way I once handled problems in my life. If a great ride couldn't do it for you, nothing would. I love your blog! I've been horseless for 11 years now. I hope one day to get back.....
Reading this brought tears to my eyes. I miss my quiet, introspective, healing time with the horses. I have two mares who support the feelings you describe. Such depths of their presence. Busy-ness has taken over for awhile though. I'll get reconnected soon with that stillness I'm sure.
I've done some good writing while mucking out. Also while out on long, meandering trail rides.
In fact, this happens so much, I should probably give my pony a writing credit
Book luck on your book!
sj
I think most horsey people know exactly what you're talking about...people who dno't have dealings with horses just don't know what they're missing out on. If this secret got out everyone would have a horse of their own!
What a beautiful story and insight. Silk sounds like your horse soulmate.
I love to drape my arms and and head over my horse's body, too. I love how all the tension and stress seems to leave my body and both my horse and I breathe a great sigh of relief together.
It truly is amazing when a human and their horse make that spiritual connection, isn't it?
I've had my horse, Baby Doll for 6 months and just recently, I feel we've connected on a much deeper level. Truly profound.
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