Staying True to Your Values....

If there is one thing I have learned over the years it is that it is easy to go with the herd.  Most of us do because it keeps us in our comfort zones.  Unfortunately, nothing great ever happens in our comfort zone.

Recently, I watched a Buck Brannaman Horse Clinic. His clinics are all about working outside of your comfort zone in a three day, action-packed riding clinic.  I have followed Buck since he was well...a young Buck and I have to say there is no other horseman that I admire more than this man.

I admire Buck because he has a lesson to teach us all that has nothing to do with horses.  It is about being true to who we are, what we stand for and how we want to portray that to the world.  It has nothing to do with being popular...he's controversial, it has nothing to do with money...he doesn't wear a logo, it has nothing to do with being politically correct...he tells it like it is, he isn't running a popularity contest.  It is about a man that pays homage to his former teacher and the horses that he is blessed to be a part of.  A truly great horseman  understands that it isn't about making money, or having a big ego, there are plenty of clinicians out there that have that, it is really about one simple idea; it is about doing right by the horse.  That's it, doing right by your horse is the single most important thing that you will ever do as a horse owner, but it is a choice you have to make. It takes work, it takes time and it takes discipline.  There is no instant app you can download to become a great rider.  It is about a wet saddle pad, hours learning and a desire to be better.

The most beautiful thing that I have learned from riding and owning these majestic animals is that they push you beyond your limits.  They are loving, forgiving and the best friend you will ever have but they expect you to be the best that you can be.  It is amazing how they train us.

Don't ever settle.  Don't ever run with the herd if it goes against your values.  Be brave enough to step outside of your box.  Be fearless.  Take a stand. Honor the beauty of our four-legged friends.  Run wild. Run Free. Be owned by no one. Do the right thing no matter how unpopular it is.  Have the guts to be yourself!
Thanks Buck!
Happy Riding!
kelly