THE LIFE OF A RANCH WIFE: BIG BAY HORSE It was on one of the windiest mornings we’d seen in a while, with temperatures that downright chilly, when my husband and I found ourselves horseback, prowling pastures for some cows and calves. As we trotted, I thought about the two horses we were on: both simple looking, and sure, pretty enough in their own right, yet maybe not the most eye catching on the ranch, or even in our string. But in our choice in catching our mounts that morning, we had caught our two big bay geldings. ARTICLE & PHOTOS BY KATE SANCHEZ
A
nd so, I thought long and hard as we trotted up steep hills, down sharp canyons and across rugged terrain; about what these horses mean to us, and what they remind me of. They are like some of the best people I’ve encountered; the ones who I feel blessed to have in my life. They are the animal form of what parents strive to raise and send out into the world, as citizens in a society where so many do not act with such respect and dignity. They are our very best and exhibit many of the characteristics that so many people lack. In short, the essence of these horses represents what we should all strive to be… Be a person who can be depended upon. When the going gets tough, stay in the game, don’t disappoint those who lean on you, and when someone needs help, rise to the challenge. Like our big bay geldings, be the kind of person who is always dependable, no matter what time of day, what the weather is, or what’s going on in your world. Be solid and steady. Don’t change with the newest of fads or trends but be willing to bend a little for what’s best for yourself and those closest to you. Like a trainable horse, be willing to take suggestion and learn new skills, all while staying honest and upfront about the kind of person you are and who you are continually striving to be. Don’t change for the world, but be willing to compromise when necessary. Bend, but don’t break. Be honest. Be honest to yourself and everyone you encounter, even if it hurts. Don’t shirk on duties, show up when you’re supposed to, and be honest about why you may not be living up to expectations. People will respect you for that. Like those dependable horses of ours, we all have an “off” day, and that’s okay. Just don’t let it be every day. Be a person who is understanding and has a big heart, but don’t get run over. Recognize the times when enough is enough and stand up for what’s right. Don’t let these situations make you overly tough and resentful, but understand when there’s a time and a place to be resilient and strong. Show heart. Be compassionate, yet courageous. Demonstrate tenacity like no one else you’ve ever seen. Our very best horses are kind, and gentle, but when they’re asked to perform a rigorous task, they quickly become gritty and tough. Rarely will they get us into a bind, but when they do, they always find a way out. Be soft in the things you do, and in your heart, but be sure to keep a thick skin and a unique view of the world that no one can take away from you.
PG. 30 :: FALL 2019
In a time when social media dictates how you should look, act, and even think, stay true to yourself. Don’t feel as though you’ll be overlooked simply because you’re more modest than other people. Often, horses with color or the extra “chrome” are most favored, as they turn heads and grab your attention. But statistically, most of those winning the big events are “plain” colored. As much as it might be nice to be noticed, or hold center-of-attention status, be the opposite. Stand back and be quiet, and let your actions do your talking, and in doing so, you won’t have to try to be noticed, it’ll just happen. So, as for those horses who aren’t fancy, although they don’t necessarily grab your attention, still try your best to be like one of them. They may not be much to look at but will often surprise you with all the good they have to offer. Do your best to embrace yourself, and others too, in the same manner. In a world of grays and palominos, be a big bay horse.
