Horsemanship: Not being distracted by the dramatic behaviors

Why do I live this lifestyle and commit myself to this type of unrelenting,  physically demanding, challenging work?

For moments like this.

Penny Lane arrived a few weeks ago and just getting into the pasture with her I had to have a flag so that she wouldn't literally run over the top of me, or turn and double barrel kick using all of her gangly two-year-old 16.2H size to impose herself.

I could see beyond her fearful, reactive, defensive behaviors. I could recognize her trying to have self-preservation based on what her past human experiences had taught her.

I didn't take her dramatic and dangerous behaviors personal. It wasn't about me. It was about her pleading for help, support, and guidance.

Once she could acknowledge me, she could hear me. Once I was heard, I could influence her thoughts. After becoming mentally available to hear my input, I could help her drain her emotions. When the internal chaos was gone, the physical behaviors became reasonable.

It isn't about "horse training."

I don't want to create obedience or compliance.

I want to build a partnership with respectful two-way Conversations acknowledging, believing, and helping the horse.