10/25/2024
(Adapted from the writing of A. Burwell)
*The Power of Cleaning Stalls*
I will never be able to describe the power of time spent cleaning stalls.
During this time I have made some of the biggest decisions in my life. I have silently thought my way, step by step, through some of the biggest disasters I’ve faced. I have ugly-cried my way through heartbreak. I’ve thrown bags of sawdust in anger as I thought... and thought some more. Each stall has oddly given me a place of comfort as I stood, fork in hand, feeling empty during the times I’ve felt so alone. It has taught me to appreciate the serenity of the quiet, and the emotional release that comes with good old-fashioned hard work.
I’ve sculpted my back and shoulders by just sifting away. I’ve stumbled my way ....cleaning stalls through all forms of weather, exhaustion, darkness, sickness, and cold because my best friend would not be forced to stand in a dirty stall. Blood, sweat, and tears have been a reality, but hardly noticeable when little two-minutes breaks bring the warmth of a horse’s breath on your cheek.
I am so grateful for a lifestyle that teaches discipline, unconditional love, selflessness, and sacrifice. Horses bring healing, and caring for them brings peace.
Sometimes we don’t feel like getting up in the morning at all, but owning and loving animals brings a sense of purpose that overshadows our hesitations to face the world. So no matter what… we get up, and we show up.
Sometimes healing happens with each heavy forkful; working through physical and emotional pain to overcome.
Sometimes prayer, healing, therapy… it’s found in an old stall.
If you know, you know.
And if you don’t ...you should try it.
