Sanctuary

Growing up, I was always a country girl at heart, even though I never had the chance to be with horses. I never imagined that working with horses would become such a consistent and meaningful part of my life.  In 2022, I was introduced to Bridle Up Hope, by my friend Sarah, at the most perfect time. I was craving more fulfillment in my life, and getting involved at Bridle Up Hope was exactly what I needed. It was an ultimate dream come true for me and brought a new found joy into my soul. Learning about the 7 Habits, combined with developing my horsemanship skills, brought so much color and magic into my life. Each lesson with my sweet instructor inspired me in every area of my life. The barn became my sanctuary!

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Throughout my time in the program I quickly realized I had a fear to overcome with riding horses, especially because I was so inexperienced. I felt like I had lost trust in myself and my abilities, along with losing my trust in horses all together. Each time I got back into the saddle I felt my confidence weaken as anxiety filled my heart. Although I felt nervous at times and doubted myself or my horse, I didn’t give up and gave myself grace. I accepted that it’s okay to slow down and pay attention to mine and my horse’s needs, and understand how we could work together to create a great win-win situation.

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My time overcoming this fear and getting back in the saddle paralleled my personal life in such a beautiful way. It was symbolic for me to keep persevering through whatever fear or anxiety I faced, big or small, and that I could conquer it. It was almost like I would bring those anxieties into the saddle with me, and then leave it all behind as I rode away.

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Each horse has taught me something different: Teddy taught me to “Sharpen The Saw”. I truly felt like I could trust Him. His calming nature reassured me that he would take care of me as I took care of him. He gave me hope to overcome any fear while riding, and any fear in life. Diego taught me to “Begin With The End In Mind” and that I was much more capable than I thought while we practiced barrel racing. Kokomo taught me to “seek to understand” him so that we could better communicate with each other during our ride. Tulsa taught me to “Synergize”- to channel excitement for life instead of fear.

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These experiences have instilled more trust and confidence in myself. I can see so clearly now as I look back at how far I have come over the last few years. I have grown into myself, and I am more prone to try new things that may scare me or be unfamiliar. I have more joy and excitement for life. I am more capable and hard-working. I am more passionate about creating my own dream life. I view my experience at Bridle Up Hope as a miracle in my life that has worked together with many other little miracles, to help me become more confident, resilient, joyful, and of course, always hopeful of the future no matter what.”

- Bridle Up Hope Women’s Participant

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