Get up and get over it

I am afraid of horses. I've been on a horse three times. I've been thrown off a horse three times. It doesn't take a rock scientist (to quote Tara Reid) to suggest that riding isn't my game.

But when I met Theresa Thompson something went afoot. She's aptly in the role of volunteer coordinator for Horses for Healing in Bentonville and compelling in her goal, and before I knew what was happening, my daughter and I were volunteering at their campus every week.

Shucks, I thought. I can do a good deed and get over my phobia, too. And if the Prince of Wales ever wants to take me horseback riding on the beach at Northumberland, I won't embarrass all my kin making it four for four.

The experience has been remarkable. For these special needs children the time spent on horseback doesn't seem like therapy. Though it is. They giggle and coo and amble along six feet off the ground with unmistakable glee. Something about the horses' gait does something remarkably therapeutic for these kids, some of whom don't walk on their own. I'm grateful to share their joy.

It takes three volunteers to give one child time to ride. One leads the horse, side walkers companion the rider on either side, maintaining physical support as we "walk on" around the arena. Three volunteers for every child is a big volunteer load. Not to mention what it takes to feed a horse its hay.

If you think this economy is churning a hole in your company's budget, just imagine what our charities are experiencing. They exist on those willing (and able) to share what they have. I noticed today a wish list of items they need -- which I want to share here, in the hopes some reader out there will be able to give. Contact me for pick up or delivery and I'll take it out to the farm.

Charmin tp, tall kitchen bags, large plastic tubs, brushes, combs, bottled water, insect repellent, duct tape, saddle pads and blankets, bathroom cleaners, big trash can liners, big Avery dots (it's how the kids learn about horse parts), office supplies, WalMart gift cards of any denomination, and horse items of any description.

No, I haven't actually gotten ON a horse yet. I've groomed them, brushed their tails and mane, lathered them up with shampoo and walked along side keeping my feet well out of reach of theirs. I think I'm healing. Polly insists therapy is therapy and one day soon I'm going to get up and get over it.


Copyright 2009 Janie Clark