One of the wonderful parts of my job is that I am able to
interview people who often inspire me. These interviews humble me. They make me
feel honored, knowing that people entrust some of their story to me and allow
me to share bits and pieces of it with others.
Recently I interviewed a U.S. Air Force Veteran and a stroke
survivor who have found new hope through equines.
For those who struggle with post-traumatic stress disorder
and anxiety, working with horses – particularly mustangs – can be therapeutic.
As Ron explained, the peace and the patience learned through working with a
wild mustang can change a life. He is a testament to that.
He attributes his work with Batman, the featured mustang in
my
recent piece with WildHeart Mustangs, to his ability to be a better son,
husband, father and grandfather. How huge is that? He said that where once he
spent his days in virtual solitude, he now cherishes every minute with his
family – and he wants to be around them again. There is such emotion and power
to his story when I hear him tell it. It is so clear that not only is he being
helped through his work with this mustang, but that he desires to help others
find similar healing as well.
He was among the first veterans to work with Batman as the
wild mustang set foot on BraveHearts soil. Each first – a hand feeding, a hoof
in a hand, a first success in putting a saddle on – any of these
accomplishments required dedication and commitment. Ron was determined to see
this mustang through … and, as he did, he learned patience, commitment and
awareness – which benefits him in all of his relationships. Being around the
horses and learning to focus recharges him so that he can be more present in
everyday situations.
The opening of a door, crowds of people or unexpected
situations can easily startle wild mustangs. In a similar way, Ron said he
shared the same anxieties. As he helped Batman acclimate to his new surroundings,
Batman helped him acclimate to civilian life.
What a remarkable reciprocal effect!
Another inspirational woman who suffered a stroke ten years
ago and continues to wrestle with the effects of that stroke works alongside
Batman as well. She credits him with helping her regain more control of her arm
and leg left weakened by the stroke.
Joan explained that she feels completely whole when she is
with Batman and the other horses at the barn. She feels as though she can live
in the moment when she is looking into their eyes and standing beside them or
singing to them in a stall. Batman accepts who for who she is – and she accepts
Batman for who he is.
Batman was just two when he came to BraveHearts Therapeutic
and Educational Riding Center. The President and Chief Operating Officer picked
him out of a group of young mustangs in Rock Springs, Wyoming, after the
Checkerboard Roundup. He was chosen as much for his distinctive markings as for
his long legs and substantial size – which would be beneficial in his future
work with veterans and other adults.
Batman never ceases to live up to his name. In addition to
his shiny black coat and his desire for goodness and kindness, he brings with
him courage and mystery, Ron said.
When I see the great strides these men and women have made,
I am inspired to overcome the little things that are hindrances in my life.
When I see how far they have come, I feel that, in some smaller way, I can do
the same … because they have lead by example. They have paved the way. And,
despite their many victories, they live humbly ~ championing the cause of the
underdog as well as the fighter.
These images were from a few years ago in dark lighting, when Batman was raw and untouched.
 |
| A U.S. veteran participating in Operation Mustang spent a long time waiting for this moment when Batman would eat from his hand. |
 |
| This moment of bonding between Batman and another U.S. veteran in the round pen was exciting to capture. |
 |
| An early image of Batman in the beginning of 2015 |
 |
| BraveHearts President and Chief Operating Officer initially picked Batman as much for his markings as for his substantial size. |
