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.
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Darin said,
December 1, 2009 at 2:41 pm
it sounds like churro had a huge impact on you in these past few months. i wouldnt take it as having to say goodbye, because everything you have learned from him will still be with you, which means you are still with him. it goes both ways too. like you said, animals arent stupid. everything he learned from you will stay with him, making him always with you. i know this sounds super oovy groovy, but its the way i think of everything and everyone that has entered and left my life. and who knows, perhaps you will cross paths again. i have a feeling you will
Linda Bardes said,
December 4, 2009 at 3:15 pm
Darin:
The previous reply said it: Churro will always be in your life based on your experiences together and what he taught you.
Here’s another thought: I recently sold almost everything I own to be free to move into the next experience of my life. I’m a lot older than you (65) and most likely had a lot more than you do, but when you have nothing to keep you in one place you can be open to amazing places, people and experiences. So if you do, indeed, need to part from Churro, know that he only led you to the next step in you life! My plan is to go onto the AZ trail the end of Feb beginning or March and spend time learning what the trail has to tell me about the next part of my journey. LBardes
Doug and Margaret Ann Adams said,
December 6, 2009 at 10:55 am
I like both Darin’s and Linda’s comments. They remind me of the philosophy that when one door closes another door opens.
I daily affirm for myself clear thinking and wise actions. I share this affirmation and its energy with you.
Love you, Gma
Vivian Cook said,
December 6, 2009 at 5:50 pm
I am so glad for you that you were able to enjoy this experience while making your journey along the AZ trail. I really hope that you will be able to learn more and more from your horse as your expedition nears an end. There will most likely be a way that you and Churro will be able to see each other after your journey and even if you have to say goodbye, you will always have these memories of your times together, and maybe someday you will be able to buy him for your own or visit him often. As friends, you will never forget one another and don’t lose hope, because you will always be able to hold onto the memories and experiences you shared during these weeks along the trail. Thank you for sharing with me your experiences and the fun you have had with a horse that certainly sounds like an amazing friend and companion. Keep posting!
Helen said,
December 10, 2009 at 6:17 pm
I have found that if you really want something to happen strongly enough, you can find ways to make it happen, and also often the universe will cooperate with you in making it happen. So if you see Churro as your compadre who you want in your life always, there is in all likelihood a way that this could happen. However, if it’s just not possible at this point in your life journey, I offer my sympathy, as I know how strong that bond is with a horse, they are amazing creatures. And yes, you will never forget him, nor him, you. But I do hope you can find a way to keep him in your life! From reading your posts, it sounds like you two are very good for each other.