Living in the moment is a talent horses possess and are willing to share without a visit to the self-help section of a bookstore. Coincidentally, does anyone remember bookstores? The racks and racks of printed information drawing you in to search for your latest bit of knowledge, with the smells of new books and invitation to slow down, relax, peruse, and possibly become enthralled in a new hobby or mental adventure in a far away land can be intoxicating. You’re reading this on a printed page, so congratulations, you are allowing yourself to be in the moment.
Why should living in the moment be a concern? The future is never a guarantee; a precious life can be extinguished in a heartbeat leaving you with only memories and thoughts of what could have been. Sadly, spend some time with a relative who suffers from Alzheimer’s, and you will realize that the past is not a guarantee, either. Memories fade and become distorted, losing prominence as we struggle to recall a favorite recipe or the name of an acquaintance we’ve known for many years. To combat this, take a page from the horse’s playbook and begin to appreciate what is happening at this moment, right in front of you, and develop the appreciation for not taking our lives for granted.
For ten weeks in the summer, East Point Horspice carves out Thursday and Friday evenings designating them as opportunities for everyone involved – this includes riders, volunteers, and the horses – to see life through the perspectives of our silent partners. On the surface it may appear as no more than people leading horses while others ride around. But, for at least a couple hours every week, this activity inherently forces all involved to have a common focus, away from electronic distractions, and create a wonderfully beneficial situation to soak in the wisdom of the horses. These fuzzy instructors teach without words and, due to their view on life without holding on to the past (i.e., they hold no grudges) or planning for the future (i.e., they develop no agendas), create a safe environment for active demonstration on being present. Perhaps nobody understands better than horses the thought that it is called the present because it is a gift to be cherished and protected for all the right reasons.
The EPH therapeutic summer is quickly slipping away as we have but two weeks left in the riding season. However, the horses are here 365 days and are always open to visitors and volunteers who would enjoy their outdoor classroom. Listening to them quietly munch on hay as they enjoy a cool breeze with the sunshine warming their backs will undoubtedly slow your world down at least two gears. The horses would love nothing more than to invite you to come to the pasture, sit in a comfy lawn chair and read a book.