Hailey's "Heart Horse"
"Sometimes the greatest things in life are the things that have no thought put into them." - Hailey
“Where are you going?! Please come back!” This beautiful chestnut gelding, Cielo, was contentedly grazing in his field when it began to rain lightly. Two of his buddies in the field next to his began to make their way to their shelter. Feeling anxious about being left behind, Cielo began neighing loudly after them - unfortunately, blasting my ears out in the process.
Horses are very social creatures and feel more content and safe in the company of others. After all, in the wild, a lone horse is more vulnerable to predators. His two friends weren’t going very far though, and there was a third horse nearby as well so he really didn’t have much to worry about.
Cielo is a very sweet, yet sometime anxious horse. If he gets wound up, he may pace his fence line. But other times, he’s such a mellow fellow, and a sucker for scratches and hugs. He’ll put his head over the fence, and allow me the give him as much love and affection as I have time for. His gentle, loving energy envelopes me and makes me feel at home. I’ve also seen how he graciously, automatically, lowers his head to be haltered or bridled. He is a gentle soul with a willingness to please.
His current owner, a young woman named Hailey, recently purchased him after riding him in lessons and then leasing him. Whenever she and I talk about Cielo, her adoration for him – her very first horse – is deeply evident and touching. Earlier this year, she even got a large tattoo of his beautiful face on her forearm. When I asked her to share what Cielo means to her, this is what she had to say:
“Cielo has the most handsome face, kindest eye and exceptional bravery. He is a horse that only comes along so often. Cielo has done it all - he’s been a cutting horse, a lesson horse, and is my best friend. When we ride the trails together we become one with one another. I’ve got his back and he’s got mine.
(Photo of Hailey and Cielo courtesy of Andrew Bernatchez)
Previously, I had a mentor whose chestnut mare I was spending time with. My mentor kept pushing that I should get my own horse, but I was a hard ‘no’ in response. In the background of this, I had met and begun riding Cielo in a lesson program, refreshing myself to get on the chestnut mare, and creating a strong bond with Cielo in the process. One morning when I was leaving the barn after finishing chores for the mare, I’d glanced at my phone and saw that Cielo was looking for a new home. At that point all cards were out the window. I couldn’t see him go anywhere else. I instantly called his owner and arranged a free lease. Now I’ve have had him in my care for about three and half years, and have outright owned him for a year and a half of that. Not a day goes by that I don’t have one bit of regret for that split moment decision.
Sometimes the greatest things in life are the things that have no thought put into them. When I’m with Cielo, I’m grounded, I’m happy, and safe. No horse in my eyes could ever replace him. He is truly my “heart horse.” Cielo’s mellow personality forces everyone he meets to love him. He loves other horses, people and just life in general. He has to smell everything and show you his teeth! His goofy self is the most special thing. I guess when they say money can’t buy happiness, they’re wrong. Buying Cielo is one of the best things I’ve ever done! He is special boy that leaves a print in the hearts of everyone he meets.”
Hailey so beautifully expresses what makes Cielo, and their bond, so special. I am grateful to have met them both, and I wish them many happy years of friendship and adventures ahead.
Join me in two weeks to learn about Hardhack shrubs, and the joy of finding unexpected heart-shapes in nature.
Blessings to you,
Lindsay