If written from the perspective of an East Point Horspice horse, this column would most likely read a little differently.
“Today there was a guy who had trouble walking and thought he could ride on my back. The people who run this outfit put him in a device and lifted him out of his chair and into this specially designed saddle which helped hold him in place more securely. I usually take it a little slower with humans that show me an issue with their balance and/or strength. Don’t want anyone falling off. We walked around the paddock enjoying the slight breeze and cooler air. My hair is starting to get a little shaggy and when I see the birds bunching up and flying in their synchronized flowing patterns, I realize the seasons are about to change.
I have given this older gentleman rides before. From the conversation amongst the humans, I gather he is a war veteran who later in life suffered a nearly fatal injury from a car wreck. That’s why I get to be his legs during our outings. He reminisces about younger days and being around horses, both for working a farm and just plain good times riding fences. I too remember younger days when I could go 8-10 hours under a rider who used to love to take me to the mountains and ride through trees and sagebrush with no other purpose than to take in the scenery and live a life on the trail. Funny how we all ended up here today on the edge of the Sandhills, all our joints achier than we’d like, our muscles not responding as when we were green and ambitious; but, the spark in our eyes hasn’t dimmed and if we resist the urge to catch a glimpse in the mirror of our graying muzzles, we are the same spry firecrackers who need to appreciate the fact that the powder may a little wet and the boom not so loud.
After about 30 minutes I sense my partner is beginning to fatigue. He mentioned several times how riding has helped his back pain by allowing him to stretch and use core muscles in ways no other therapy has done. He tells his physical therapist this but questions whether they believe him. He says he doesn’t really care what they think, all he knows is that this ride of ours makes a difference and he sees improvements after each visit. Truth be told, these rides are good for me, too. I enjoy the physical activity and it can’t be denied how being outside in the fresh air with a defined purpose improves my mental state. I also see a comradery blooming among the humans and feel happy that I might be one of the reasons they come together and share this time.”
As weather allows, EPH make every effort to share the love all year long. Perhaps you’d like to get out of the house before a January winter settles in. Feel free to contact EPH at (308) 762-3848 or check out www.eastpointhorspice.com for more information.