I accept and respect you, for who you are not for what you do
I am a close friend of Dawn Batti, co-founder of Warrior’s Soul. This is my testimonial of the power of horses in helping people with their problems.
I was driving out to see Dawn and had a very unpleasant conversation with my mom on my way there. It brought up lots of negative thoughts and emotions. By the time I pulled onto the property, I was in a very bad mood. Dawn suggested that we work with a horse to get to the root of why I was so bothered and upset. I reluctantly agreed.
Dawn brought a horse into the arena and as I was stroking and petting her, Dawn began asking me questions-questions that were profound, thought provoking and yet simple at the same time. She kept asking me how I want the horse to help me, which got me further in touch of why I was so upset, over what seemed to be so trivial. What I finally understood was that just being me, nothing more, nothing less is enough. No, actually more that enough. And I don’t have to do anything. I just have to BE.
During this conversation, the horse wandered away to the other side of the arena, munching on the grass surrounding the arena. This took her to the fence that divided the arena from a pasture that house 4 geldings. I slowly walked over to her and just stood, then sat, by her head. She simply stood with me, her head hanging near my head. She was completely relaxed and was just being present, with me. Now, this was extremely profound, touching, poignant and powerful because I know this horse. I know that she loves to tease the geldings whenever she has a chance. All four geldings had by now wandered up to the fence, getting as close to her as possible. She and the geldings were only a few feet away from each other. She ignored them and chose to stand near me.
This beautiful, wise mare knew what I needed in that moment. Her message was “I accept and respect you for who you are, not for what you do.” Dawn was equally touched (and perhaps a bit surprised) by this mare’s lack of interest in the geldings. Dawn said this was very unlike her.
This experience touches me still although it happened close to one year ago. I will never forget the message I was blessed to receive from this incredible four-legged being. ~ML