++I++f we are willing to cut corners to appease a student’s ego in order to keep them interested in riding in our program. If we knowingly encourage our students to buy horses that speak to the fantasy of what they would like to be as a rider, but no way realistically appropriate for where they are at? Teach values that emphasize winning at all costs, but do not develop a true skillset or substance. Should a rider jump before they can go walk, trot, or canter, do a two point… post correctly? Should they get to practice lead changes or a piaffe, but have no clue as to how to sit independently of their hands and they do not know what a horse that is correctly connected feels like? To me all of the above sounds absurd, however this is where we are at today in our equestrian culture. Why do we dare ask, why it is all going to hell in a handbag.
Our values as a society have been cheapened to the point that anything that takes time and requires patience is cast aside. This is also why we as a society are struggling with our identity as we are constantly feeling unfulfilled. It is not just an equestrian issue; it is a human issue.
Can we turn this all around? I don’t know…
I can hope there are enough of us out there that care, feel a responsibility, and dare to carry the truth and uphold the integrity of what was once more common. I love teaching, and I put a lot of energy and care into what I put out into the universe. I value learning more than ribbons. I value the relationship more than the limelight, and I have capitalized on those values regardless of its popularity. Doing what is in the horse’s best interest is at the heart of these values, and my wish is to pass this message on to whomever will listen.