There is a story that I have heard told about Mahatma Gandhi. It has been said that during a time in his life while amidst protest, Gandhi had sworn himself to an oath of silence. A reporter caught up with him to ask a question. He wanted to know just what kind of message was Gandhi trying to convey?

The train that Gandhi was preparing to board was now readying to depart the station. The reporter continued with his question as Gandhi climbed silently aboard. As the train began to pull away Gandhi held to the window a sign with a hand written answer for the reporter. It read "My life is my message."

In relating this to my horsemanship blog one might ask, "where is the connection?" Gandhi's message is a powerful statement that has led me to hours and hours of contemplation and self study. I have asked myself "just what is the way that I live my life conveying to the world? Do I represent the changes that I wish to see? Is the way that I work with horses a positive life affirming method that conveys love and understanding?"

In reflecting upon these questions I will say, that when I had first come to conclusions, I was not satisfied with the answers. The message that I was conveying to the world was not one that I wanted to stand behind 100%. Not to say that I was completely dissatisfied. I could see that some areas could use improving.

Since then I have strived to learn from and study under people whose messages ring true with me. A journey that has brought quite a few wonderful beings into my life. For which I am grateful.

There have also been areas which needed my discernment. Some other teachings out there I have had to turn my back on and leave behind. Not all that is taught is in good relationship. There are thousands of answers to any one question. My goal has been to compile the knowledge and skills that I feel are beneficial to my horses and me. As well as extend compassion out to those I encounter in my everyday life.

Horsemanship after all, does not end when you slide out of the saddle and put your horse away. It relates to all aspects of a person's life.

I have included into my life such centering practices as meditation and Yoga. I attempt to live every day with awareness and remain balanced. To quote Buck Brannaman "The greatest challenge about being a horseman is controlling your emotions." A statement that I feel speaks volumes.

The prey/predator relationship that humans have with horses can include a rather large gap in thinking. Horses deal with challenges and situations much differently than we do. They are mostly concerned with personal safety and keeping an escape route open. As well as sensing their herd and gaining comfort from a calm atmosphere.

For the human to be able to maintain the calmness to provide security for the horse is huge. With that ability one can gain a horse's trust and sense of respect. Building a relationship that, when viewed from the horse, is one with a confident, compassionate leader.

To scare a horse is easy. Anyone can lead by fear and intimidation methods. Whip, jerk and spur have been far too common in the horse world. To conquer the horse and beat them into submission is a path that I walked away from a long time ago. My message is one of love and compassion. For me the right way to live is with honesty and integrity. I try to never lie to my horses. Rather, I lead them from a place of mutual respect.

There is no greater joy than to have a horse be a willing partner. From a place such as that, the bounds are limitless.

What is your message?

Happy and Safe Trails, my friend.

Eric

Easton Horsemanship