Orson Welles is credited with quoting, “We’re born alone, we live alone, we die alone. Only through our love and friendship can we create the illusion for the moment that we’re not alone.” To create this illusion I have to ask, “Do we really need each other?”
If you deal with people who devote their time and energy towards animals you will eventually run across an individual who claims a disdain toward humans. Failed relationships, distrust in fellow human beings, unnecessary arrogance, abuse or difficult attitudes will unavoidably add fuel to this hatred fire and lend credence to their love of animals and avoidance of people. Understandably, these folks will argue that their horse (or dog, maybe even cat) never lets them down, never judges them and is always there for them when they need a hug or shoulder to lean on. That is the cherished reason to develop a relationship with animals; but, are we selling ourselves and our beloved equine friends short if we do not have the far-sightedness to realize they can do more than just be a fuzzy ear to bend and become a conduit in which we can overcome our prejudices and/or fears of other humans?
There is a growing movement in the horse world where these animals are used as the focus in healing humans who have suffered traumatic events. The concept of using horses as the basis to help people recover from PTSD has been around for some time, but it was until recently on the bottom of the psychologist’s toolbox. As you read this, please understand that while the horse is the device that helps us become better humans through their non-judgmental nature and unmatched ability to see through our veils of emotional deceit, this process is delivered by other people with a deep appreciation for the capacity of horses to heal. Yes, people helping people by using horses. Again, do we need each other? It can be argued that we do, that we can make this world’s current state of affairs more tolerable and have meaning by the relationships we develop with horses and other humans. Bringing people and horses together is a fantastic gift not to be overlooked and is one that East Point Horspice does not take for granted. While EPH is known as the place where kids with special needs go to ride, the horses have so much more to offer for every person who chooses to visit and interact with them. For further details or inquiries, you are invited to contact EPH at eph@bbc.net. The horses can’t wait to meet you.