I thought I might begin using this blog for my own edification. Or perhaps an archaeological testament of the changes, trials and tribulations of a horse enthusiast with a myriad of unique talents and interests. Last week was a new placard, a new step in a direction that I believe unifies the disparate worlds each foot stands grounded in. In other words, last week was my first class at Reed. And thus begins a more complete picture, I believe of what makes me wholly unique in this industry. Horses for me are a lifelong love. The passion, hard-work and quiet unity between myself and Zisel, that is typified most thoroughly in my love for life-long education. I came from humble beginnings and it was nothing but raw interest in the world around me that brought be back time and again to the library. It was a massive force problem, finding the kinetic energy to trudge up socio-economic divides and find a place for "poor, white trash" among the ivory tower elite. Horses again, a re edification of that same problem, err, challenge. At the end of the day I believe horses can be so much more than a social signifier of wealth and privilege. It can be the medicine for faulty mental wiring; the smashing of the ceilings of personal limitations, from both internal and external sources. Or, as I find it, the cessation of endless business of the external world. Both in books and on horseback, the only focus is the matter at hand. Whether it be a lateral shift of the left hind or the 4 foot fence approximately 3 strides away- in that exact moment nothing, absolutely nothing else exists. Social pressures, personal pressures, the audience at the back gate or the patient instructor in the middle of the ring- the disappear into a blur. This beautiful blur, where the only clarity is the feeling of horse and rider, THAT is what I live for.

Step 1. Reed's Honor Principle