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write to: info@beyondthedreamhorse.ca
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The archived 2011 Articles Series are still available for pdf download or web viewing here
Article titles from 2011: Mismatched Socks, The Missing Link, The Fragile Leaf, A Changing World, The Future is Now, Romantic Notions, Pushed to the Brink, Mirror Mirror On the Wall, The Human Masquerade, Know Thyself
Also available in print...
Article titles from 2011: Mismatched Socks, The Missing Link, The Fragile Leaf, A Changing World, The Future is Now, Romantic Notions, Pushed to the Brink, Mirror Mirror On the Wall, The Human Masquerade, Know Thyself
Also available in print...
Words of Truth and Horses
A
compilation of articles from the 2011 series. Insightful, inspirational, informative
and personal, the diverse individual articles and photos help to shed
light on the understanding of ourselves and horses.
8 x 10 Full color coffee-table-book-style softcover
List Price: $19.95 US
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Also available on Amazon (Free Super Saver Shipping over $25)
8 x 10 Full color coffee-table-book-style softcover
List Price: $19.95 US
To Order Click Here
Also available on Amazon (Free Super Saver Shipping over $25)
Article Series 2012
Copyright Michael Bevilacqua 2011-2012
Copyright Michael Bevilacqua 2011-2012
Mind Over Matter
by Michael Bevilacqua
May 2012
by Michael Bevilacqua
May 2012
Photo: Muzzle and Fence: Kerry Estey Keith Photography -
www.creekandmesa.com
A big concern with a growing number of horse owners who want to teach their own horse is where to draw the line to avoid applying any kind of overt pressure. Of course, what one person may consider pressure is absolutely negligible to another. There are some ingredients that can remove any of the guessing and all of the pressure. Free will, education and fun are all part of it. A simple foundation can produce cognitive development for long-term learning capability and understanding between you and your horse.
To sum up quickly about negative and positive reinforcement: negative reinforcement is applying a pressure in some way to the horse until the horse moves away from that uncomfortable pressure resulting in the desired movement. Positive reinforcement is a reward for the horse when a semblance of a desired move is presented by the horse. The two are often combined in some way in that a negative pressure is applied to get a result and then the horse is rewarded after the result. The reward could simply be the cessation of pressure or what is commonly known as 'release'.
Some may argue that since a horse can feel a fly land on a single hair then any physical contact is applying pressure. Looking through the glasses of a textbook definition, such conditioning could be seen in any situation in daily life with horses or between people. Yet, there is a lot of physical contact going on all the time and it has nothing to do with negative reinforcement conditioning.
People have seen photos of me with horses and sometimes I'm holding a long twig. They are convinced that I am using negative reinforcement even if at an absolute minimum. It is not so. Drawing such a conclusion is normal since a twig in the hand becomes directly associated with what we are so familiar with in terms of a whip being used in training.
To sum up quickly about negative and positive reinforcement: negative reinforcement is applying a pressure in some way to the horse until the horse moves away from that uncomfortable pressure resulting in the desired movement. Positive reinforcement is a reward for the horse when a semblance of a desired move is presented by the horse. The two are often combined in some way in that a negative pressure is applied to get a result and then the horse is rewarded after the result. The reward could simply be the cessation of pressure or what is commonly known as 'release'.
Some may argue that since a horse can feel a fly land on a single hair then any physical contact is applying pressure. Looking through the glasses of a textbook definition, such conditioning could be seen in any situation in daily life with horses or between people. Yet, there is a lot of physical contact going on all the time and it has nothing to do with negative reinforcement conditioning.
People have seen photos of me with horses and sometimes I'm holding a long twig. They are convinced that I am using negative reinforcement even if at an absolute minimum. It is not so. Drawing such a conclusion is normal since a twig in the hand becomes directly associated with what we are so familiar with in terms of a whip being used in training.
The twig becomes a reference to reach where, how high and for how long
With horses, one of the main ingredients that comes into play is free will. If the horse has a choice to stay with you or not then applying any uncomfortable pressure to the horse will most likely make him leave. Pressure does not have to be physical. Intense staring, words with strict tone and gestures could still intimidate a horse.
In Beyond the Dream Horse there is a story about a rescued horse that did not want anything touching him. In observing my work and play with other horses, he eventually invited me to try an exercise with him. It was using a barrel to enhance stretching by placing a hoof on top of it in preparation for Spanish Walk. While walking alongside me, he slowed, swerved behind me and nudged the barrel with his nose. He looked at me and did it again and stood there. He was willing to try and I seized the opportunity. Placing the barrel on its side in front of us, I put my own leg on the barrel and asked him to do the same by saying, 'step'. He copied me almost immediately.
I was so happy that he did it, I wanted him to immediately do it again. That was a mistake. I touched my own leg and put it up on the barrel and he now looked at me with uncertainty. I demonstrated again and again and then touched my leg and touched the tip of his hairs on the back of his leg and pointed to the barrel. Maybe it seemed too simple for him, like he was not doing what I wanted. He became unsure and apprehensive. I could see it in his face. It was too much for him and he slowly turned and walked away. That was already an improvement from him bolting off in a panic.
I went to him and reassured him, stroked his neck and talked softly to him. Those who are fixated on training would say that I positively reinforced his walking away from me. It has nothing to do with that. That tiny lesson was already over. I had to deal with his emotional issue now. That horse made an effort, even initiated it by 'asking' me through his curiosity. I pushed it too far to begin with and should not have touched him. In his uncertainty, I let him know that it was alright. I let him know that I heard his voice. That made all the difference in the world for him.
It is allowing the horse that free will that brought him to me the next day asking me to try again. When horses know that they are free to leave if things get uncomfortable then they are more willing to try again. If the horse gets frustrated, disinterested or keeps leaving then it is up to you to find what it is that you are doing wrong and to find a new way of expressing yourself.
In Beyond the Dream Horse there is a story about a rescued horse that did not want anything touching him. In observing my work and play with other horses, he eventually invited me to try an exercise with him. It was using a barrel to enhance stretching by placing a hoof on top of it in preparation for Spanish Walk. While walking alongside me, he slowed, swerved behind me and nudged the barrel with his nose. He looked at me and did it again and stood there. He was willing to try and I seized the opportunity. Placing the barrel on its side in front of us, I put my own leg on the barrel and asked him to do the same by saying, 'step'. He copied me almost immediately.
I was so happy that he did it, I wanted him to immediately do it again. That was a mistake. I touched my own leg and put it up on the barrel and he now looked at me with uncertainty. I demonstrated again and again and then touched my leg and touched the tip of his hairs on the back of his leg and pointed to the barrel. Maybe it seemed too simple for him, like he was not doing what I wanted. He became unsure and apprehensive. I could see it in his face. It was too much for him and he slowly turned and walked away. That was already an improvement from him bolting off in a panic.
I went to him and reassured him, stroked his neck and talked softly to him. Those who are fixated on training would say that I positively reinforced his walking away from me. It has nothing to do with that. That tiny lesson was already over. I had to deal with his emotional issue now. That horse made an effort, even initiated it by 'asking' me through his curiosity. I pushed it too far to begin with and should not have touched him. In his uncertainty, I let him know that it was alright. I let him know that I heard his voice. That made all the difference in the world for him.
It is allowing the horse that free will that brought him to me the next day asking me to try again. When horses know that they are free to leave if things get uncomfortable then they are more willing to try again. If the horse gets frustrated, disinterested or keeps leaving then it is up to you to find what it is that you are doing wrong and to find a new way of expressing yourself.
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Day 2: Allowing free will and reassurance brings you so much more in the long run
One of the most common phrases in riding schools or standard training tips is, 'You are the boss'. If one is the boss, then that includes dominance and if dominance is present then so is force. To get an open relationship based on free will and true effort for comprehension then you have to turn that old idea upside down.
The twig becomes a pointer and would not be necessary if it were not for having to reach along the horse's body. How could the horse see the pointer if you are asking for a hind leg to move forward under his body? How would he know which hind leg? Touching, in this instance, is not negative reinforcement but a clear indication of what body part I want placed. Standing at the horse's shoulder, I could easily reach to the diagonal hind leg, touch the hairs of the fetlock, the front of the hoof or maybe tap hard in front of the hoof so he could feel air or vibration.
Even if the front of the leg was touched, then the horse would know which leg is being asked for and move the leg forward, as he understands to do through the word, 'step'. He does not move away from it as if the touch was the signal and an opposing pressure. That's the difference.
The horse should already understand what 'step' means with the front legs. It also already starts with indications on your own body. It encapsulates an entire learning process. So, a long reach or touching serves as an indicator, not an applied force. You can take it further by taking the time to teach the horse what left and right means including fore and hind.
From all the little steps taken at the start, all should be clear to the horse including free will, comprehension of movements and your intention. When you work with the horse's mind to help him understand what you are trying to do in the first place, then the intention is teaching and there is no fear, there is no punishment, there is no force.
An example given in my dvd is helping with a dance move. Say your daughter is practicing a dance routine for school and at the last pose you suggest that she bring in her left arm closer to her body and extend her right leg further out. She understands the whole context of what it is that you are saying. There you are explaining what you mean and maybe physically touching but it has nothing to do with negative reinforcement. There is no place for action-reaction conditioning in teaching if you want to build a real relationship based on understanding and trust with your horse.
There is another nuance that comes into play regarding an equal relationship or a true, level playing field with horses. As a role of teacher, in a sense, you are the leader at that moment. Not in the sense of being the boss or the alpha or because horses need someone to follow. You become a teacher, a guide, a friend who takes the initiative to build a way of understanding each other. This also builds the relationship over time. You are trying to get a message across and the horse knows this very well.
The twig becomes a pointer and would not be necessary if it were not for having to reach along the horse's body. How could the horse see the pointer if you are asking for a hind leg to move forward under his body? How would he know which hind leg? Touching, in this instance, is not negative reinforcement but a clear indication of what body part I want placed. Standing at the horse's shoulder, I could easily reach to the diagonal hind leg, touch the hairs of the fetlock, the front of the hoof or maybe tap hard in front of the hoof so he could feel air or vibration.
Even if the front of the leg was touched, then the horse would know which leg is being asked for and move the leg forward, as he understands to do through the word, 'step'. He does not move away from it as if the touch was the signal and an opposing pressure. That's the difference.
The horse should already understand what 'step' means with the front legs. It also already starts with indications on your own body. It encapsulates an entire learning process. So, a long reach or touching serves as an indicator, not an applied force. You can take it further by taking the time to teach the horse what left and right means including fore and hind.
From all the little steps taken at the start, all should be clear to the horse including free will, comprehension of movements and your intention. When you work with the horse's mind to help him understand what you are trying to do in the first place, then the intention is teaching and there is no fear, there is no punishment, there is no force.
An example given in my dvd is helping with a dance move. Say your daughter is practicing a dance routine for school and at the last pose you suggest that she bring in her left arm closer to her body and extend her right leg further out. She understands the whole context of what it is that you are saying. There you are explaining what you mean and maybe physically touching but it has nothing to do with negative reinforcement. There is no place for action-reaction conditioning in teaching if you want to build a real relationship based on understanding and trust with your horse.
There is another nuance that comes into play regarding an equal relationship or a true, level playing field with horses. As a role of teacher, in a sense, you are the leader at that moment. Not in the sense of being the boss or the alpha or because horses need someone to follow. You become a teacher, a guide, a friend who takes the initiative to build a way of understanding each other. This also builds the relationship over time. You are trying to get a message across and the horse knows this very well.
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|
Understanding and trust are far better than training
It takes an amount of leadership with no less respect as any teacher-student relationship should be. Would you consider a mother looking out for the welfare, conduct or safety of a child, leadership? When you are trying to convince a friend who wants to stay home to go out to a movie with you, is that leadership? Not exactly, but it is the same thing in regard to a way of being with horses. It is taking the initiative to build a bridge; to make a connection. During this process, you learn about the horse and the horse learns about you. This is precious. You may only come to realize this over time. It is not articles, such as this that will convince you, it will be the horse.
References:
Michael Bevilacqua: Beyond the Dream Horse, Quebec, Canada, 2010. www.beyondthedreamhorse.ca
References:
Michael Bevilacqua: Beyond the Dream Horse, Quebec, Canada, 2010. www.beyondthedreamhorse.ca
The Silent Rhythm
of Life
by Michael Bevilacqua
April 2012
by Michael Bevilacqua
April 2012
Photo: Monument Unseen by furryscaly
“Nature's
music is never over; her silences are pauses, not conclusions.”
- Mary Webb
- Mary Webb
Our brain is hard-wired for
many things and although we can study reactions of the brain we may
still be uncertain as to how or why it works the way it does. It
shapes our observations, decisions and behaviour within our lives and
society. Conversely, regarding horses, we may know why and how they
behave but we are missing a big part of their perception. Yet, we do
share fundamental semblances and the answer is within us.
A research team led by neuroscientists Drs. Daniel Levitin of Mcgill University and Vinod Menon of Stanford University analyzed durations of notes in 2000 musical pieces ranging from a wide variety of Western musical genres from classical to Elvis. David Huron, while at the University of Waterloo, created a computer program called Humdrum that sampled 400 years of musical history. Through all the different styles and composers, a mathematical pattern emerged based on the length of a note and the duration of the pauses. The pattern is a 1/f (one over f) power distribution. It is not a musical beat or rhythm. We are not actually conscious of such a pattern but what makes music pleasing to us is how our brain responds to what is known as fractal structure.
A fractal pattern is a tiny part of a structure that resembles the overall structure. An example from Beyond the Dream Horse is when I first recognized that the view while looking down at the the earth while flying was quite similar to looking down at the details in the ground while standing on it. There seems to be a unity or semblance represented in different layers of existence. Geometric examples of self-similarity would be a seashell, tree, snowflake, broccoli or a galaxy right down to electrons forming them in the quantum realm. It is all around us.
In short, this pattern or timing found through music or mathematical equation is the same for our heartbeat as well as in the frequency and intensity of Mother Nature's events. Just like the composers who share this inherent quality through time, we also reflect all of the structure of nature.
A research team led by neuroscientists Drs. Daniel Levitin of Mcgill University and Vinod Menon of Stanford University analyzed durations of notes in 2000 musical pieces ranging from a wide variety of Western musical genres from classical to Elvis. David Huron, while at the University of Waterloo, created a computer program called Humdrum that sampled 400 years of musical history. Through all the different styles and composers, a mathematical pattern emerged based on the length of a note and the duration of the pauses. The pattern is a 1/f (one over f) power distribution. It is not a musical beat or rhythm. We are not actually conscious of such a pattern but what makes music pleasing to us is how our brain responds to what is known as fractal structure.
A fractal pattern is a tiny part of a structure that resembles the overall structure. An example from Beyond the Dream Horse is when I first recognized that the view while looking down at the the earth while flying was quite similar to looking down at the details in the ground while standing on it. There seems to be a unity or semblance represented in different layers of existence. Geometric examples of self-similarity would be a seashell, tree, snowflake, broccoli or a galaxy right down to electrons forming them in the quantum realm. It is all around us.
In short, this pattern or timing found through music or mathematical equation is the same for our heartbeat as well as in the frequency and intensity of Mother Nature's events. Just like the composers who share this inherent quality through time, we also reflect all of the structure of nature.
Thought Without Thinking
In the April 2011 article, The Missing Link, it briefly explains how the brain's hemispheres or types of brainwaves are always a blend of type of thought and mix of layers of thinking. In Beyond the Dream Horse chapter, The Crossroads, I mention the progressive suppression of right-brain thinking due to our school system. Only ten percent of children retain high right-brain creativity by age seven and only two percent carry it into adulthood.
The traditional American Indians believed in using both sides of the brain. They did not delve into neuroscience but they understood the essence of our nature; the duality and how these help us live in harmony. They did not originally have written words. Pictograms, symbols and a very rich language reflect much more right-brain thinking. Although language is a left-brain function, the sentence structure allows right-brain function. The spoken sentences are opposite to English in structure. Their learning involved more alpha states through story-telling, education through discovery, momentary inner quietness when searching for an answer or before speaking, studying dreams for guidance, dancing, music, a deep spiritual connection and power of healing are all part of it.
The balance between insight and logic can flow together. At liberty with horses it is observation and spontaneous reaction that seems to bring human and horse into sync. This is part of the common phrases, 'going with the flow' or 'being in the moment'. It is part of the bond that creates the dance, the play, the happiness in moving together. I once saw a film clip about the acute perception of the horse when it came to cow cutting. The cow is the one trying to get away and yet the horse perceives, through physical 'clues', what the cow intends to do and gets there before the cow does. In my experience of playing with horses in a field, it is this subtle dance in awareness that maintains the momentum and seamless flow of beauty. It is not anticipation of movement but recognition of it without thinking. It becomes an interaction because during the locked-in understanding and effortless focus through this fun, the horse begins to play off the person as well.
Horses are good at being horses. If you want a good relationship with the horse without force or intimidation then the onus is on you to help bring it forth. They will do just fine being themselves. Trying to explain this is a good example of the left and right brain working together. So many people want something better with the horse rather than the old traditional stuff but are at a loss as to how to proceed. This is a sign of the result of our society and world being built mainly on left-brain thinking.
Preparation is good, reading this may help but even in understanding this as a process you must remember to put the focus on yourself. If you start to ananlyze to what any of this refers in terms of training then it will be a slow slide back into the situation of a human training a subservient animal.
When it comes down to your moment face to face with your horse, you have to immerse yourself in the experience. You can help initiate a true interaction, guide it along but you have to let it develop and not try to make it happen. This may seem to be in conflict with each other but is also an example of mixing the head and heart. Just as a feeling requires the head to express it, a thought from the head can allow your heart to become it.
It is said that the Hopi Indians are the best at expressing non-linear thought. For the rest of us, a lot more can be revealed about ourselves through simple handwriting. The study of this is known as graphology and it is a science. Your left-brain can form the words and put them to paper but they are expression of inner thoughts. The very essence of you can be reflected in how you write on a blank page: where a line starts, where it ends, the spacing, the slant, the pen pressure and in every single letter that you form. If the end result of writing is a reflection of our inner being, then a form of reverse-psychology can take place by consciously manipulating the end result. This is known as graphotherapy. It is proven to work on character traits as well as health.
A tiny, fraction of an example would be how you cross your 't's. If the 't' is crossed high in a lower case letter, it reflects confidence, ambition, overall good self-image. A lower case 'd' with a big upper loop signifies difficulty in dealing with criticism. These examples can have variances within themselves but graphology reveals universal traits that apply to all people. There is a short, online analysis that is very basic, maybe not exact to you, but fun to try. You may discover something about yourself and maybe try some positive changes. It is listed in the references.
Graphology is an in-depth science and there are a lot of services out there. If you want to study it or get an analysis, do your research homework. My first foray was twenty years ago with a great book by Andrea McNichol, Handwriting Analysis: Putting it to Work for You. She is a professional and has a great approach to teaching. Some examples seem almost self-evident and can serve you in your life or business or maybe allow you to see that someone is suffering in quiet desperation.
But who really writes anymore? Not type on a keyboard but put a pen to paper for more than a quick grocery list or post-it note? A real, hand-written letter can convey and mean so much more.
Connecting with horses has more to do with connecting with and grounding yourself. This has largely become a society of 'entertain me'. Spending hours on forums and watching online videos will only take you further away, not only from yourself but also from your horse. It can only be worthwhile if you at least later go out and try something with your horse and try to learn from your own live experience in real time.
Aside from requirements of work or absolute necessity try a no-computer-day. No phone text, no email, no browsing. Choose the day in advance. Computer off! Could you do it? What would you do with that time instead?
When a day goes by there is no getting it back. The sun will not wait for you before it dips out of sight. I have been fascinated with the quiet patience of the Earth. Pick any geographic location and for eons the land or sea itself may have remained seemingly unchanged. However, place the people in there from different eras. One time may be of creativity, prosperity and harmony while another is discord, suffering and bloodshed. As Shakespeare wrote, '...all the world's a stage.' In time, all disappears on the surface. Washed away and blown with the wind only to be replaced with yet another scene of humanity.
And the Beat Goes On...
This is your time. Of course
we need time for learning but take hold of every moment for
opportunities for pleasure, happiness, sharing and laughing. Of course
we need to make a living and have all kinds of possessions,
especially if taking care of horses, but everything is transient
except love.
This is all about enriching your life through further awareness. Assumptions often abound in regard to people and horses and can steal a moment of openness that would change your life forever. Open your heart; speak up if you need to but be silent if you do not. This is all about communication, respect and an attempt to understand yourself and all that lives around us. I once wrote that I view this world like a big school. It can also be a vacation resort. Our scene on this stage will come to an end, sometimes sooner than expected. Get out there and give it your all.
This is all about enriching your life through further awareness. Assumptions often abound in regard to people and horses and can steal a moment of openness that would change your life forever. Open your heart; speak up if you need to but be silent if you do not. This is all about communication, respect and an attempt to understand yourself and all that lives around us. I once wrote that I view this world like a big school. It can also be a vacation resort. Our scene on this stage will come to an end, sometimes sooner than expected. Get out there and give it your all.
References:
Daniel Levitin: http://daniellevitin.com/publicpage/
McGill Newsroom: The beat goes on: the geometry that makes music pleasing
Michael Bevilacqua: The Missing Link
Allan Chuck Ross: Journal of American Indian Education: Brain Hemispheric Functions and the Native American
Anil Bhatnagar: Are You Using Both Sides of Your Brain?
ofesite.com: Online Handwriting Analysis
Andrea McNichol: www.brainprints.com
Being Who You Are
by Michael Bevilacqua
March 2012
by Michael Bevilacqua
March 2012
SAFE! - Horsing around with the ball
Expression allows you to bring to the world the thoughts and feelings inside of you. It can be an enduring work of art, music or dance. It can be instant in how you act or what you say. How what is said or understood depends upon your frame of mind, particular interests or familiarity of how you are most exposed to it. The word itself can have a different meaning to a mathematician or biochemist.
The greatest comedy sketch of the twentieth century was made famous by Abbott and Costello. Who’s On First is a prime example of two people saying the same thing but understanding in completely different ways.
Communication can be so complex and diverse that a request for a form of expression may only get you an old, well-known phrase. It is the angle that your own thoughts, expectations or intentions are coming from that allows you to entirely understand or misunderstand.
If someone wants to have a better relationship with a horse, what does that mean, exactly? The interpretation of a good relationship can vary widely among all kinds of people.
Two horse barns may proclaim the same principles while they are dramatically different. In the horse world, there are old words that can have new meaning, such as ‘respect’. There are new words that can still hold old meaning, like ‘willingness’ replacing obedience or submission. It still depends what angle someone is coming from in expressing such terms. People can play with words all they want. In the end, what matters is how it affects the horse.
The greatest comedy sketch of the twentieth century was made famous by Abbott and Costello. Who’s On First is a prime example of two people saying the same thing but understanding in completely different ways.
Communication can be so complex and diverse that a request for a form of expression may only get you an old, well-known phrase. It is the angle that your own thoughts, expectations or intentions are coming from that allows you to entirely understand or misunderstand.
If someone wants to have a better relationship with a horse, what does that mean, exactly? The interpretation of a good relationship can vary widely among all kinds of people.
Two horse barns may proclaim the same principles while they are dramatically different. In the horse world, there are old words that can have new meaning, such as ‘respect’. There are new words that can still hold old meaning, like ‘willingness’ replacing obedience or submission. It still depends what angle someone is coming from in expressing such terms. People can play with words all they want. In the end, what matters is how it affects the horse.
Stepping Out of the Line
In ‘Beyond the Dream Horse’, I describe the day that my entire perception about my own knowledge and horses changed. Starting out as a green horse owner, learning this, learning that, changing this and dropping some other things was quite a journey and growing experience. Except for when I realized that as far up the track I got, despite all the changes I thought I had made, I was still on that same, linear thought. It was by completely stepping off that track that the shift in concepts and my behaviour created a whole new dynamic with horses.
It is from your experience of the past and the knowledge of the present that the horse stands before you as never before. It is subtlety, strength, beauty, fragility and truth reflected to us in the horse.
I was asked in an interview if I believe that a horse has a soul. That question took me aback. The only definitive answer that I could provide is based on what I believe constitutes a soul. How can I even prove that I have a soul? Is it self-awareness? Consciousness?
Horses and other animals in the wild have reflex reactions but they also learn from experience and can analyze a situation and choose from different options. Domesticated horses have acquired a lot more knowledge and learn to adapt to many different situations or circumstances by living in our environment. Experience or knowledge permits the brain to override an instinctual response.
Horses may not have our form of language but they clearly communicate and process information in different ways (vision, scent, sound). Being able to think, express one’s self or feel emotions does not require words. People who have brain injuries and lose the capability of speech are no less conscious than anyone else. When the frontal cortex of the brain that controls language is damaged it opens the door to more sensory based areas of the brain. This can be referred to as the subconscious or true thinking. Temple Grandin very well explains similarities of thought processes between those with autism and horses (and other animals). We all possess hidden skills, talents or awareness that is blocked by our logical end of thinking in language. What has been termed privileged access, can sometimes be artificially induced in normal healthy individuals by temporarily inhibiting neural activity in the left anterior temporal lobe through low-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation. (SNYDER/MITCHELL 1999).
If I believe that I have (or am) a soul, because I think, feel emotion or simply recognize myself in a mirror then I would have to conclude that horses, possessing these same traits, do have a soul.
When people begin to see things objectively instead of through their own desires, it can create quite a shift, not only in thought, but in real life. For the first time, at the end of one of my private workshops there was a long discussion among participants about what the next step in their lives with horses would be. A positive and healthy way of interacting with horses was evident. That was not the problem.
Each of the people kept several horses because they ran some kind of horse business. Over the years they saw the repeated problems and ailments, physical and emotional, in the horses they used. As professionals, how would they continue their livelihood, literally and figuratively, if not on the backs of horses? What other options are there with horses other than the use as a commodity for human entertainment and profit? When I began asking myself those questions years ago, I closed my business as horse trainer and riding instructor.
A lot of people have gone into hoof trimming, treating injured horses by focusing on an expertise, combining a myriad of existing healing techniques or setting up a horse rescue or refuge. For the most part, they are helping horses that are in the type of businesses that they walked away from.
When most people say that they are searching for answers and truth, what they really want is to hear what suits them. How often is the answer really coming from the horse?
Anyone who provides research results provides intellectual arguments. It does not matter how logically it can be presented in layman’s terms. What makes people change is not science on a printed page. It is most often the personal emotional factor from every horse owner that will effectuate change. It is very rare that raw data will change someone’s habitual beliefs. Especially, if people are happy doing what they are doing, they become selective in which facts they choose to believe. If it stirs reflection, it is because it touches a part of that person’s emotion regarding directly or indirectly his or her own horse. The information must strike a chord that is already lingering somewhere inside.
The term relationship is often further expanded to include the overall cooperation of a horse according to what a human wants to achieve. That causes problems. It is easy to ask a horse to do what they naturally do. That is the horse moving in full splendour, playing and capable of intelligent thought. Regarding free will and respect, people can go off course when they are trying to get the horse to do what the horse does not want to do.
When a person goes off to find a technique or other tools to suit their ends, those options may not always fit the person’s character. They may try to adapt to some other way other than their own normal way of being. Whether it is by working with a horse’s mind in free will or physical force or psychological domination, if it does not fit a person’s character then it does not work. There is, however, one common effect: This can cause disappointment, self-doubt, lack of self-confidence which, in turn, certainly affects the fundamental relationship with the horse.
Have you ever come across a horse that you once knew well years before? They do remember you – far better than most people realize.
The basic relationship between you and your horse is not something that can be found in a book or taught to you by someone else. It is very personal and unique between both you and your horse. It is you who can get the ‘feel’ of what kind of mood your horse is in more than would a stranger who is looking on. Likewise, the horse knows your moods, form of expression and way of being. That is very personal and so much can develop and move forward in a personal relationship without you trying to achieve an exact outcome because you are simply being who you are.
Window to the World
by Michael Bevilacqua
February 2012
by Michael Bevilacqua
February 2012
“Through the trees we could hear and see the dirt bike aggressively speeding up the hill. My horse had seen motorcycles before. I don't know why that one startled him. It was sudden. Maybe it was the full, black helmet and visor. Just a black, shiny ball for a head. I always was conscious of being gentle using a bit. I quickly took up the reins; maybe harder than I intended. My horse’s bad reaction to this made me again make quick pulls to the right, then the left. He reared slightly and bolted. There was no stopping him. Leaning forward, I panicked, pulled hard and he jerked his head up, breaking my nose. In that momentary daze, I struck a low branch, toppled over the back of the horse and have been paralyzed from the waist down ever since.”
I heard this story in 2005, from one of the many different people who came to visit when I used to be a Bitless Bridle representative. We talked for a couple of hours and she told me that she really liked it and had no problems with her horse while using it. She still rides, even on trail. I related some of my own stories about different horses that did so much better without a bit. The fact that this woman in a wheelchair still went riding did surprise me but told her she was wise to use the Bitless Bridle, especially after the escalation reaction due to the bit.
“No,” she said. “If I go on trail I still use a bit for safety.”
I do not recall my reaction but it was either a blank, frozen, momentary stare of disbelief or feeling like I just got hit in the head with a rubber mallet. I remember that conversation because, after all the talk and that statement, I still am not sure what her real intention was for the visit. I know that I have mentioned stuff like this before. This is just a specific example of how I simply cannot grasp why someone would continue to follow a norm instead of doing what they personally know works.
In 'Beyond the Dream Horse', I mention a woman who rode bitless for the first time only out of total desperation. She had already given up and was actively trying to sell the horse. It was because of her 'nothing to lose' attitude that the outing was the only decent, actually, pleasant ride that she had in two years with her Arabian mare. However, it was the one and only time. In her joy, she returned to the barn during the week and the people that were there convinced her to use the bit for her 'crazy' horse. The rides were once again a disaster. When I finally did see her again, I remember her sitting in sadness and confusion as she awaited a buyer who was coming to pick up the horse.
I heard this story in 2005, from one of the many different people who came to visit when I used to be a Bitless Bridle representative. We talked for a couple of hours and she told me that she really liked it and had no problems with her horse while using it. She still rides, even on trail. I related some of my own stories about different horses that did so much better without a bit. The fact that this woman in a wheelchair still went riding did surprise me but told her she was wise to use the Bitless Bridle, especially after the escalation reaction due to the bit.
“No,” she said. “If I go on trail I still use a bit for safety.”
I do not recall my reaction but it was either a blank, frozen, momentary stare of disbelief or feeling like I just got hit in the head with a rubber mallet. I remember that conversation because, after all the talk and that statement, I still am not sure what her real intention was for the visit. I know that I have mentioned stuff like this before. This is just a specific example of how I simply cannot grasp why someone would continue to follow a norm instead of doing what they personally know works.
In 'Beyond the Dream Horse', I mention a woman who rode bitless for the first time only out of total desperation. She had already given up and was actively trying to sell the horse. It was because of her 'nothing to lose' attitude that the outing was the only decent, actually, pleasant ride that she had in two years with her Arabian mare. However, it was the one and only time. In her joy, she returned to the barn during the week and the people that were there convinced her to use the bit for her 'crazy' horse. The rides were once again a disaster. When I finally did see her again, I remember her sitting in sadness and confusion as she awaited a buyer who was coming to pick up the horse.
Photo by: Clearly Ambiguous: everystockphoto.com
These simple references to the past are when bit or no bit; shod or not were the only main concerns. Today, there is so much more to consider in almost every aspect of the horse. Yet, history repeats itself. Maybe it has got even more complicated. It does not need to be.
One of the main changes is that people want to be able to learn how to interact with the horse instead of hiring a trainer. They want a better life for the horse and how to communicate better. Many look back and have regrets about what they did, thought or did not see about horses. That is normal. It is proof that you have grown with experience and become a better person. The phrase, ‘It’s not what you did that defines who you are but what you do now that defines what you will become’, always holds true. (I tried to find who wrote that but the closest I got from searching online is something from ‘Batman Begins’!) Anyway, what I like about that phrase is that it is perpetual.
I have written before that it is so important that you are truly honest with yourself in what you want with horses. This will clear a lot of the confusion. When you can define what it is that you want, or at least, what it is that you do not want, that will enable you in being able to be absolutely clear to your horse.
There are times, when all finally comes together or all of anything does not seem to matter at all.
It was a warm, summer morning. The horses were out in the field grazing and I walked into the barn to do the cleaning. Over the years, I showed them to either do their business in the barn or in two areas of the field. It certainly helps me with management and time. I suddenly got startled by a noise at the window. There was a little, grey bird fluttering between the wire grill and the window. I slowly approached and started to put my hand through the grill expecting him to fly away from me and find the way out the door. It just slumped on the ledge, leaning against the window. I thought it just died of a heart attack. Looking at this little thing that could fit in the palm of my hand, I said to myself, “Oh no, no. I don’t want this to happen!”
I ran outside to pull the window out of the frame. When I started to unlatch it on one side, the bird was back to fluttering against it. Obviously he did not die. Maybe he was just exhausted. I worked as fast as I could to unfasten the rusted latches telling the bird, or talking to myself, that I could open the window and he could just fly away. I finally got it loose and swung it open to one side and he flew off, barely making it to the nearest tree branch. I looked at him at said, 'I'm glad you made it. You'll be ok'.
The next day, while heading back out from the barn, a little, grey bird came down from the line of pine trees off to the right of me. He flitted for a moment in the dry dirt just in front of me, making a little puff of dust, and flew right back to the branch. When he had momentarily touched down, we actually made eye contact. He looked straight at me. That moment seemed to be frozen in time. Looking up to the tree, there were two birds perched there. I stood in shock. Was that the same bird I freed the day before? Did he just say, 'Hello' with his little acrobatic flight? Get my attention? I like to think so because I have never seen a normal bird act that way or fly up to a person. It made me feel really good. Whether that was the case or not, I now put out some bread and seed at the base of that tree. They are now regular visitors. Maybe they always were but I never noticed it before.
Spending time outside with horses has allowed me to function or think on a much simpler level. Ironically, it is this simplicity that permits a much greater awareness and insight to ourselves and the world around us. There is a feeling I get sometimes of complete peace and unexplainable happiness. Stepping outside and suddenly being aware of hearing the birds in the trees, feeling the sun and how the light fills everywhere; sensing the wind touch everything; sensing the horses' presence instead of just seeing them in front of me. It is almost like a type of lens has switched in my perception of all around me.
Words are so commonly used such as love and light, inner peace, all is one... but how many people really feel what that means? Really feeling a togetherness, unity or same 'wavelength' with all of nature? The last time this happened it was sudden and brief. I moved on to continue doing what I had to do. That little window where everything seemed to be allowed to flow in and out at the same time closed again. But I remember the moment; the feeling and thinking that I would be perfectly accepting and at peace if I died at that very moment. It was not some kind of existential, intangible idea of a god. It was physical, real, with a true sense of belonging – not to something – but part of it.
I don't make claims of knowing anything special. People have contacted me, earnestly asking questions about some of the stuff (other than horses) to which I have alluded or wrote about in previous articles. I have no belief of being some kind of spiritual leader, nor having some great insight, otherworldly wisdom or even being on a path of enlightenment. I think most people have had little moments like this, even if it is from a dream that just leaves you feeling good all day.
You may have seen a significant difference in how horses react with different people. It could be an old school horse or an unridden horse in a field. With one person the horse could be totally engaged, energetic, interested. With another person, you might think the same horse knows nothing at all and is completely disinterested. The key is to be the best of who you are, happy and at peace with yourself. Your attitude, certitude and confidence will not change the world but the rest will begin to fall into place in the world around you. Especially when it comes to horses.
One of the main changes is that people want to be able to learn how to interact with the horse instead of hiring a trainer. They want a better life for the horse and how to communicate better. Many look back and have regrets about what they did, thought or did not see about horses. That is normal. It is proof that you have grown with experience and become a better person. The phrase, ‘It’s not what you did that defines who you are but what you do now that defines what you will become’, always holds true. (I tried to find who wrote that but the closest I got from searching online is something from ‘Batman Begins’!) Anyway, what I like about that phrase is that it is perpetual.
I have written before that it is so important that you are truly honest with yourself in what you want with horses. This will clear a lot of the confusion. When you can define what it is that you want, or at least, what it is that you do not want, that will enable you in being able to be absolutely clear to your horse.
There are times, when all finally comes together or all of anything does not seem to matter at all.
It was a warm, summer morning. The horses were out in the field grazing and I walked into the barn to do the cleaning. Over the years, I showed them to either do their business in the barn or in two areas of the field. It certainly helps me with management and time. I suddenly got startled by a noise at the window. There was a little, grey bird fluttering between the wire grill and the window. I slowly approached and started to put my hand through the grill expecting him to fly away from me and find the way out the door. It just slumped on the ledge, leaning against the window. I thought it just died of a heart attack. Looking at this little thing that could fit in the palm of my hand, I said to myself, “Oh no, no. I don’t want this to happen!”
I ran outside to pull the window out of the frame. When I started to unlatch it on one side, the bird was back to fluttering against it. Obviously he did not die. Maybe he was just exhausted. I worked as fast as I could to unfasten the rusted latches telling the bird, or talking to myself, that I could open the window and he could just fly away. I finally got it loose and swung it open to one side and he flew off, barely making it to the nearest tree branch. I looked at him at said, 'I'm glad you made it. You'll be ok'.
The next day, while heading back out from the barn, a little, grey bird came down from the line of pine trees off to the right of me. He flitted for a moment in the dry dirt just in front of me, making a little puff of dust, and flew right back to the branch. When he had momentarily touched down, we actually made eye contact. He looked straight at me. That moment seemed to be frozen in time. Looking up to the tree, there were two birds perched there. I stood in shock. Was that the same bird I freed the day before? Did he just say, 'Hello' with his little acrobatic flight? Get my attention? I like to think so because I have never seen a normal bird act that way or fly up to a person. It made me feel really good. Whether that was the case or not, I now put out some bread and seed at the base of that tree. They are now regular visitors. Maybe they always were but I never noticed it before.
Spending time outside with horses has allowed me to function or think on a much simpler level. Ironically, it is this simplicity that permits a much greater awareness and insight to ourselves and the world around us. There is a feeling I get sometimes of complete peace and unexplainable happiness. Stepping outside and suddenly being aware of hearing the birds in the trees, feeling the sun and how the light fills everywhere; sensing the wind touch everything; sensing the horses' presence instead of just seeing them in front of me. It is almost like a type of lens has switched in my perception of all around me.
Words are so commonly used such as love and light, inner peace, all is one... but how many people really feel what that means? Really feeling a togetherness, unity or same 'wavelength' with all of nature? The last time this happened it was sudden and brief. I moved on to continue doing what I had to do. That little window where everything seemed to be allowed to flow in and out at the same time closed again. But I remember the moment; the feeling and thinking that I would be perfectly accepting and at peace if I died at that very moment. It was not some kind of existential, intangible idea of a god. It was physical, real, with a true sense of belonging – not to something – but part of it.
I don't make claims of knowing anything special. People have contacted me, earnestly asking questions about some of the stuff (other than horses) to which I have alluded or wrote about in previous articles. I have no belief of being some kind of spiritual leader, nor having some great insight, otherworldly wisdom or even being on a path of enlightenment. I think most people have had little moments like this, even if it is from a dream that just leaves you feeling good all day.
You may have seen a significant difference in how horses react with different people. It could be an old school horse or an unridden horse in a field. With one person the horse could be totally engaged, energetic, interested. With another person, you might think the same horse knows nothing at all and is completely disinterested. The key is to be the best of who you are, happy and at peace with yourself. Your attitude, certitude and confidence will not change the world but the rest will begin to fall into place in the world around you. Especially when it comes to horses.
Zhao Ji (1082-1135) Eyes Embroidered with Plums : chinaonlinemuseum.com
The Gift
by Michael Bevilacqua
January 2012
by Michael Bevilacqua
January 2012
Several years ago I submitted an article for Equus magazine about a personally moving experience in giving private classes to a deaf teenage girl. I am not going to repeat the article, but wanted to share some important points.
She had difficulty at regular riding stables for comprehension, keeping up the learning speed with the others or being noticed as different. The girl had no problem with learning but the instructors had little time or patience to devote or adapt with special attention in group classes. The short-lived lessons mostly ended in tears. When the father of the girl called me, I thought of how I can read my horses’ reactions, how I learned to show them what I wanted, how to find the best way to help them to understand. Those were the first thoughts that popped into my head. In a flash I saw all the different situations with the different horses. Many that were also once considered outcast. I had already stopped giving riding lessons to the public yet, for some reason, accepted this special request for the girl.
At that time, the horses were already bridle-free. I was still dragging some of my ‘trainer’ mentality but the horses were still in the process of showing me a simpler way. They had already demonstrated that they would tolerate a strange rider for a short time but would also gently make it clear when they had enough by stopping and looking over to me. This was a period when I began to fully realise that the relationship formed with the horses was not transferable. The horses were not ‘trained’ as people understand in the typical sense. It certainly was not like programming a machine and handing it over to another person and showing which buttons to push to make it work.
Through that girl, I saw more into my future than I realised. Here was a girl taking standard riding lessons when she really wanted to be accepted by and share with the horse. She not only was happy to spend time with them but interact with them in a playful and loving way that was usually scorned at back then. The only conventional activity with the horse at that time was brushing, tacking up and riding. In some stables, simply talking to the horse was forbidden.
She had a spirit and an outlook toward the horse that many of my private students shared. It is a mentality outside of the norm and it is evident that many others share this view and feeling but stayed ‘in the closet’ until an opportunity presented itself.
I did my best to communicate with the girl, even at the risk of seeming silly. My facial expressions were exaggerated and expressive and my whole body became a tool of communication. I would show her what to do and what the horse was supposed to do. She found it sometimes quite amusing, but it was working. She was progressing well and the horse was just great. He was patient and not minding my change in behaviour. He knew what was going on. I think he was trying to help this girl as much as I was. The horses and I accepted her and we turned out to be just what she was looking for.
In ‘Beyond the Dream Horse’, I mentioned a wave of change that was occurring in the horse world. The barefoot movement was part of that and has really taken hold. Keeping the horse barefoot and in a more natural environment along with understanding more of the physiology of the horse has become very common for the average horse owner. What a difference from roughly ten years ago. Around here, when just one person in a stable decided to permanently remove horseshoes and do their own trims, it was shocking. They would be lectured to, ridiculed, ostracized. It caused such furor in regard to the long-held established norm as when it was first presented that the world was not flat.
Although the benefits of normal hoof function is based on medical science, it took very long for people to make the switch. More than science forging the way, it was the people who were bold enough to stand by their horses instead of a human dogma. In the end, it was the horses that proved the advantages of going barefoot to the nay-sayers and doubters.
Nevertheless, the phrase, ‘If you are going to ride, the horse needs shoes’ still persists (mostly coming from farriers). Did changes come about because of logical reason or because of popularity? If a new boarder with cemented, traditional beliefs were to begin boarding at a stable where all horses are barefoot, people understand the evident terrible function and effects of bits and maybe some do not even ride their horses, would the person change through becoming more educated or through social pressure or wanting to fit in?
In the article, ‘The Fragile Leaf’ of May 2011, I mentioned a sometimes observed disassociation between what people would say and what they would do. I still wonder about this when someone may talk about the importance of a ‘natural herd’ lifestyle for the horse; explaining how they are trickle eaters, need constant access to fresh water and the company of other horses; respecting the horse and even allowing a horse a choice. Yet, they will take the horse out for hours on a trail ride at least once a week. Many people, at least around here, will add that a horse does not need a bit but since they are out on a trail, they will use one for ‘safety’. When I see this common contrast, I ask myself where all the arguments I just heard them proclaim about a natural herd lifestyle go.
Do people just adapt to changing ways without really changing their own views or personal behaviour as if they were simply following a social trend or fad?
A change of viewpoint and way of life should be a normal progression rather than adopting a method as a false pretence in order to attain a personal desire. The double-standards of human viewpoints and our self-proclaimed superiority has been mentioned before in the articles and the book. In the August article, ‘Romantic Notions’, the horse is often referred to as a divine gift, yet, look at what we have done to the horse throughout history. As humans relating to a different species it should be no surprise considering our nefarious behaviour just among ourselves.
A breaking story of January, 2012, was of a ‘human zoo’ in the Andaman Islands, north of the Equator in the Indian Ocean. A primitive tribe that discovered civilisation in 1998, are now drawing paying crowds of tourists who toss scraps of food to them to make them dance. It is equally noticeable how media outlets are posting videos and pictures of bare-breasted native women. Never would a news story depict a semi-nude ‘civilised’ woman, even from a nude beach! Why, in 2012, are the ‘primitive’ women not considered part of the prevailing man-made shame and denial, the facade of laws or personal respect concerning human bodies? Sometimes I really do wonder about changing people’s views toward the horse. It seems we have learned very little within our own human history. With the negative public reaction from this story, I am relieved to see that the world is also filled with decent, caring people.
That young girl is one of them. We are always learning; always changing. Perhaps, erroneously, I followed too much of a habitual standard in showing this girl how to ride. On the fifth day, she showed up with enthusiasm. After I called the horse from the field to the stable and she placed the saddle onto the horse, she lowered her eyes and looked off to the side. I knew she was thinking of something. I guess I should have seen it coming. She removed the saddle and placed her hand on the horse’s back. Looking at me, she put her hand to her chest and then put her hand back onto the horse. I smiled, nodded yes, and went to put the saddle back on the rack.
It was not the riding that was important to her. She was a natural, for sure, but it was not what she was best at anyway. Very early on, with other students, I learned to help some of them flow with the horse more than load them with info about proper posture and positions and movements. A calm, relaxed, balanced rider would become worse trying to focus on proper textbook riding rules.
The beauty of seeing that girl walking with a horse in the field was the naturalness of it. Actually, it seemed more surreal. She could speak, but seems she chose not to. She rode a short, preset course, but then dismounted. In the field, she was walking alongside the horse, laughing, plucking up grass and giving it to the horse, and seemed to be talking up a storm with him. If not with words then certainly through her entire being. He was free but followed her around, also played and stayed with her.
The father and I watched from afar as he stood in silent joy, tightly clasping his hands with tears in his eyes. I felt a similar state after the way the girl hugged me to say goodbye. It filled me with a sense of love that I just cannot quite describe. It seemed to have changed me. It makes me think of Dr. Masaru Emoto’s transformed water crystals. The horse did something that I don’t think he has ever done for me - he neighed when they pulled out of the driveway.
I wanted the experience to be memorable for her in a positive way. I only presented an opportunity and let things unfold naturally but it is she who gave me one of my greatest lessons and one of my dearest memories. During that week, I saw what a true change in perception of the horse is really like. Because of a young girl following the pureness of her heart, there was a gift created and shared by all.
She had difficulty at regular riding stables for comprehension, keeping up the learning speed with the others or being noticed as different. The girl had no problem with learning but the instructors had little time or patience to devote or adapt with special attention in group classes. The short-lived lessons mostly ended in tears. When the father of the girl called me, I thought of how I can read my horses’ reactions, how I learned to show them what I wanted, how to find the best way to help them to understand. Those were the first thoughts that popped into my head. In a flash I saw all the different situations with the different horses. Many that were also once considered outcast. I had already stopped giving riding lessons to the public yet, for some reason, accepted this special request for the girl.
At that time, the horses were already bridle-free. I was still dragging some of my ‘trainer’ mentality but the horses were still in the process of showing me a simpler way. They had already demonstrated that they would tolerate a strange rider for a short time but would also gently make it clear when they had enough by stopping and looking over to me. This was a period when I began to fully realise that the relationship formed with the horses was not transferable. The horses were not ‘trained’ as people understand in the typical sense. It certainly was not like programming a machine and handing it over to another person and showing which buttons to push to make it work.
Through that girl, I saw more into my future than I realised. Here was a girl taking standard riding lessons when she really wanted to be accepted by and share with the horse. She not only was happy to spend time with them but interact with them in a playful and loving way that was usually scorned at back then. The only conventional activity with the horse at that time was brushing, tacking up and riding. In some stables, simply talking to the horse was forbidden.
She had a spirit and an outlook toward the horse that many of my private students shared. It is a mentality outside of the norm and it is evident that many others share this view and feeling but stayed ‘in the closet’ until an opportunity presented itself.
I did my best to communicate with the girl, even at the risk of seeming silly. My facial expressions were exaggerated and expressive and my whole body became a tool of communication. I would show her what to do and what the horse was supposed to do. She found it sometimes quite amusing, but it was working. She was progressing well and the horse was just great. He was patient and not minding my change in behaviour. He knew what was going on. I think he was trying to help this girl as much as I was. The horses and I accepted her and we turned out to be just what she was looking for.
In ‘Beyond the Dream Horse’, I mentioned a wave of change that was occurring in the horse world. The barefoot movement was part of that and has really taken hold. Keeping the horse barefoot and in a more natural environment along with understanding more of the physiology of the horse has become very common for the average horse owner. What a difference from roughly ten years ago. Around here, when just one person in a stable decided to permanently remove horseshoes and do their own trims, it was shocking. They would be lectured to, ridiculed, ostracized. It caused such furor in regard to the long-held established norm as when it was first presented that the world was not flat.
Although the benefits of normal hoof function is based on medical science, it took very long for people to make the switch. More than science forging the way, it was the people who were bold enough to stand by their horses instead of a human dogma. In the end, it was the horses that proved the advantages of going barefoot to the nay-sayers and doubters.
Nevertheless, the phrase, ‘If you are going to ride, the horse needs shoes’ still persists (mostly coming from farriers). Did changes come about because of logical reason or because of popularity? If a new boarder with cemented, traditional beliefs were to begin boarding at a stable where all horses are barefoot, people understand the evident terrible function and effects of bits and maybe some do not even ride their horses, would the person change through becoming more educated or through social pressure or wanting to fit in?
In the article, ‘The Fragile Leaf’ of May 2011, I mentioned a sometimes observed disassociation between what people would say and what they would do. I still wonder about this when someone may talk about the importance of a ‘natural herd’ lifestyle for the horse; explaining how they are trickle eaters, need constant access to fresh water and the company of other horses; respecting the horse and even allowing a horse a choice. Yet, they will take the horse out for hours on a trail ride at least once a week. Many people, at least around here, will add that a horse does not need a bit but since they are out on a trail, they will use one for ‘safety’. When I see this common contrast, I ask myself where all the arguments I just heard them proclaim about a natural herd lifestyle go.
Do people just adapt to changing ways without really changing their own views or personal behaviour as if they were simply following a social trend or fad?
A change of viewpoint and way of life should be a normal progression rather than adopting a method as a false pretence in order to attain a personal desire. The double-standards of human viewpoints and our self-proclaimed superiority has been mentioned before in the articles and the book. In the August article, ‘Romantic Notions’, the horse is often referred to as a divine gift, yet, look at what we have done to the horse throughout history. As humans relating to a different species it should be no surprise considering our nefarious behaviour just among ourselves.
A breaking story of January, 2012, was of a ‘human zoo’ in the Andaman Islands, north of the Equator in the Indian Ocean. A primitive tribe that discovered civilisation in 1998, are now drawing paying crowds of tourists who toss scraps of food to them to make them dance. It is equally noticeable how media outlets are posting videos and pictures of bare-breasted native women. Never would a news story depict a semi-nude ‘civilised’ woman, even from a nude beach! Why, in 2012, are the ‘primitive’ women not considered part of the prevailing man-made shame and denial, the facade of laws or personal respect concerning human bodies? Sometimes I really do wonder about changing people’s views toward the horse. It seems we have learned very little within our own human history. With the negative public reaction from this story, I am relieved to see that the world is also filled with decent, caring people.
That young girl is one of them. We are always learning; always changing. Perhaps, erroneously, I followed too much of a habitual standard in showing this girl how to ride. On the fifth day, she showed up with enthusiasm. After I called the horse from the field to the stable and she placed the saddle onto the horse, she lowered her eyes and looked off to the side. I knew she was thinking of something. I guess I should have seen it coming. She removed the saddle and placed her hand on the horse’s back. Looking at me, she put her hand to her chest and then put her hand back onto the horse. I smiled, nodded yes, and went to put the saddle back on the rack.
It was not the riding that was important to her. She was a natural, for sure, but it was not what she was best at anyway. Very early on, with other students, I learned to help some of them flow with the horse more than load them with info about proper posture and positions and movements. A calm, relaxed, balanced rider would become worse trying to focus on proper textbook riding rules.
The beauty of seeing that girl walking with a horse in the field was the naturalness of it. Actually, it seemed more surreal. She could speak, but seems she chose not to. She rode a short, preset course, but then dismounted. In the field, she was walking alongside the horse, laughing, plucking up grass and giving it to the horse, and seemed to be talking up a storm with him. If not with words then certainly through her entire being. He was free but followed her around, also played and stayed with her.
The father and I watched from afar as he stood in silent joy, tightly clasping his hands with tears in his eyes. I felt a similar state after the way the girl hugged me to say goodbye. It filled me with a sense of love that I just cannot quite describe. It seemed to have changed me. It makes me think of Dr. Masaru Emoto’s transformed water crystals. The horse did something that I don’t think he has ever done for me - he neighed when they pulled out of the driveway.
I wanted the experience to be memorable for her in a positive way. I only presented an opportunity and let things unfold naturally but it is she who gave me one of my greatest lessons and one of my dearest memories. During that week, I saw what a true change in perception of the horse is really like. Because of a young girl following the pureness of her heart, there was a gift created and shared by all.
References:
Michael Bevilacqua: Beyond the Dream Horse
Michael Bevilacqua: The Fragile Leaf ; The Human Masquerade
Online Mail: Shame of the Human Safaris
United Earth: The Water Crystals of Masaru Emoto
Office Masaru Emoto: Water Crystals
Michael Bevilacqua: Beyond the Dream Horse
Michael Bevilacqua: The Fragile Leaf ; The Human Masquerade
Online Mail: Shame of the Human Safaris
United Earth: The Water Crystals of Masaru Emoto
Office Masaru Emoto: Water Crystals
