Stay in the Saddle

I grew up in a small town, home to the Paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy), and learning how to ride was part of growing up. I have spent summers in Wyoming and Colorado, ridden wild ponies, and learned dressage when I was in high school. Horses are a source of comfort for me, and riding is no different.  

I was reminded this morning of how important it is to stay in the saddle. When I first learned how to ride, my focus was on anything other than the horse. I was looking way out ahead, getting distracted by the trail we were on, or the pretty creek we were trotting by. I was looking behind me at my trail companions, I was looking down at the saddle horn, you name it, I was looking at it.  

I learned quickly, however, that along with my distracted glances both ahead of me, behind me, below and above me, there went my balance too.  

I do not know about you, but I had a hard time staying focused this week, staying grounded, staying in the saddle. I was getting caught up in the actions of those around me, the distractions of the trail ahead, the noise of the creek next to me. I was starting to lose my balance, and with it, my sanity.

The beauty of this experience, however, is that thanks to riding, I know how to stay in the saddle. 

I know how to right myself, to realign to reconnect, I know where my eyes need to focus, and that in itself is a gift that keeps on giving.

So, for those of you out there who are feeling a little off-balance, a little off-kilter, know that you are not alone. Just take a deep breath, realign your focus, and whatever you do, make sure you stay in the saddle, we need you with us!  

Happy Trails…