When do you stop?
When is it time to say enough is enough?
by Joanna G
9/9/20262 min read
Is there a cut off date? Is there a clock that says enough is enough, and if so should it be followed. I have asked myself that over and over. Am I too old, is my balance going. why is it so hard getting on and off a horse? Those and so many more questions cross my mind almost on a daily basis. I have let it go several times over the years but I keep getting drawn back in. Maybe it's a horse that I have missed, maybe just talking about riding, maybe its being there around them, still caring for them, loving them. What ever it is I get pulled back in and I miss it so much. Being able to just go out saddle up and mount to go down the road a bit for a trail ride, better yet just to do a little walk trot around the arena or hay field. What ever it is I miss it and the longer I stay off the more I miss it. I grant you I am no longer wanting to fight that spirited horse, but what's wrong with just a little bit of easy walking maybe a slight trot here and there.
It's a struggle to these days to get on and off, but where there is a will one can find a way. And that's what I am going to do. I am going to find my way back into the saddle. I have enjoyed so many things in life but nothing so much as being able to ride my horse. These days I no longer have a horse. The ones here left are either older horses waiting to finish their lives or they belong to the younger generation. But, perhaps I can find myself one last partner in life that will be gentle with my old bones and allow me the pleasure of an evening ride down the road or a pattern set up in the arena. Who know maybe I can get a canter or two thrown in for good measure. I don't want something too young that will outlive me and not be wanted if they got left behind. I don't want something that is small and weak that will have trouble allowing me the time to pull and tug on the saddle while I get adjusted. I want a horse that is big and strong and older and wiser that knows they are carrying a qualified rider that is a bit out of shape, has a few health problems, and takes a bit of time to mount and dismount but, will not jerk on the reins, force them to do something they can't, no whips, no spurs, no bad tempers. Just an old lady that misses being in the saddle. When I find that horse I want to be ready. I will give them special treatment, lots of loving and the best of homes.
So again I am asking is there a time to say enough is enough? No, never we all have to do what we feel is suited for us.