Go Ride

Sometimes I feel I don't deserve a horse with such heart and devotion. How incredibly lucky I am that James and I found our way to each other. He was almost put down at the age of six for a bone chip that has never bothered him, and then he was almost sold because he was "too difficult." But, the gods intervened and he waited for me to find him. James has offered me tons of grace, lots of personality, and 200% of his heart. I hope he feels his outpouring has been reciprocated.

I've started to ride again after not riding for a couple of years. I was curious what James had to say about this new chapter. What he gave me was his blessing:

"My energy is quieter lately. I know you feel it. But, I am still your James. I'm still devoted to you. We are still partners. You have nothing to worry about. Go ride all the horses you want. You aren't leaving me behind as you move forward. I am in every horse's footfall, I am in every soft cue you give, I am in every moment of connection you have as you sit in partnership with another horse. I taught you well and I am proud.

"It's impossible to leave me behind because I made you the rider you are. We partnered for many, many years. All of our rides are now in your blood and your tissues and your bones. Your muscles know timing and feel. You trained those with me. I gave you all of that, and I will live on in your body forever.

"I want you to ride. And you'll find your way to a horse that can do all that we did together. We were an amazing team, weren't we? We were a 'once in a lifetime.' And yet, you'll have another. And, you'll dance. And, you'll think of me and remember. Go ride and always know I ride with you. We are not separate. I live on in you. I am honored to be your legacy."

Love, James