Grieving Significant Loss

At the end of our visit tonight, my horse advised me that it's time to do the thing I've mostly avoided doing. And that is to talk about the ways that I've managed my grief through my connection with her. The ability that horses have to hold space for a human is unparalleled. It is a space that doesn't need words, only your authenticity. Meaning, being honest about the rage within you. The despair. The darkness. All of it. Letting it flow through you. Letting it out. And in turn, being seen and accepted despite all of that.

There is definitely a bond between my own horse and I as she has been in my life for 10 years, and she is actually grieving the loss of my daughter as well. Some would argue that these considerations influence the experience that I have with her, and maybe there is some truth to that. However, a horse is a horse. A flight animal. Designed to flee danger and move away from discomfort. If I am not in a space of authenticity and surrender (regardless of whatever turmoil may be occurring within me), she will not allow me near her. It's actually fascinating. And incredibly impactful, as being close to her is what I desire. So with the honest recognition of what I am feeling, I begin to surrender and she moves towards me.

You do not need to have any experience with horses to participate in a learning environment with one. Between my divorce, the long term illness and subsequent loss of my sister, the very sudden loss of my daughter, and finding new ways to exist in the world amidst all of that, Comet and I have learned much in the past six years about processing and surviving grief together. If there is a possibility that I may share her talents with others who are grieving in any manner, we are here for it. This is why I became an Equine Assisted Personal Development Coach.