No Excuses

Ransom studying hard for the trail test

The summer has flown past, and it’s Ransom’s birthday again! I can’t believe he’s already six. Horses reach physical maturity in their fifth year; it’s a lot like turning eighteen – you’re officially an adult but still have a lot of growing to do. Now that he’s passed that landmark, I feel like my “he’s still a baby” excuse has expired.

The perfectionist in me didn’t realize how much I used Ransom’s age as a crutch to avoid responsibility for his training and behavior. “He’s not accepting the bit? Oh, he’s only three. His stop needs work? He’s just four.” Training actually has little to do with age. I’ve known twenty-two year old horses who were emotional wrecks, and three year olds who had a good mind. Young horses just haven’t had the time it takes for growth.

Ransom’s youth was my go-to justification when I was worried about what others thought about his behavior…and therefore me. Frankly, it’s uncomfortable to admit that Ransom’s progress depends on my skills and knowledge, even though I know a lot. The truth is: my experience is the limiting factor, not his. I fall into the trap of expecting to reach milestones at certain ages because I’m comparing myself to others.

Ransom and I will always be a work in progress, at our own pace. I don’t need any excuses to enjoy the journey. Year six will be the best yet!

(See also The Equine Identity  Feb 10 2013)