I have been working and playing with Churro for 7 months now. He challenges me in ways that people have not. He rewards me in ways that people cannot. He has a strong personality that many horses lack. He may look awkward and move strangely but his heart is big and his love is unconditional. I struggle to find the words to describe exactly how he has impacted my life. For those of you who have not had the opportunity of forming a relationship with a horse, think about the dog you loved the most or the cat that could never be replaced. It’s a best friend situation. Some people might think it’s odd that you talk to your dog about personal issues or the plans for the day just like you would talk to a friend. People may argue that animals are lesser creatures to a degree of stupidity, but we know that is false. Our animals know more than we do. And choose what to share and what to hold on to. I had hoped to continue my relationship with Churro after this journey. We have been through a lot together. He has carried me many miles and I have hiked with him for many more. He kept me safe on dangerous trails multiple times. I sat up nights when his stomach was bloated and he could only lay on the ground and groan. I watched him near to death when he choked, the light faded from his eyes and I thought it was good bye. He let me amuse myself by picking his nose and doing other slightly ridiculous things. He’s a good sport. A champ. I love that his presence has been a constant during these last months and that I’ve been able to wake up every morning and go hang out with the Churro man. Due to the current state of the economy, it’s looking like I will have to say good bye to Churro. I am but a poor college student and horses are expensive animals. (I hate this part; when the real world suddenly reappears and you have to be practical.) This loss has been on my mind quite heavily for the last few weeks. But is it a loss? Is that the way I should look at it? It’s hard to view it any other way. I know I should be thankful for having been able to share time with him at all. I keep hoping that our paths with cross in the future, but (once again) I should be realistic. I’m kind of scattered with all of these thoughts running through my head. I was wondering if any of you have ideas on the subject, or even suggestions on how I might be able to keep him in my life.
