“The moment in between what you once were, and who you are now becoming, is where the dance of life really takes place.”
~Barbara DeAngelis
Recently we lost one of the great teachers of our time – Shoki the beautiful Arabian Horse. Yes, I did just say that a horse was one of the great teachers of our time. Along with dozens of other people Shoki taught me valuable lessons. In my case, Shoki taught me a lesson in parenting and how to have a relationship based on trust with my children. You can read about that HERE in my blog of remembrance.
I asked my dear friend and mentor, and Shoki’s caregiver, Kim Hallin if I could publish her letter of remembrance for Shoki’s students. I am so grateful that she agreed because her words are truly inspirational!
Your Editor,
Jen
AN INSPIRATIONAL LETTER OF REMEMBRANCE
Thank you to everyone who has taken the time to send your loving thoughts, support, remembrances and favorite stories about Shoki. He was such a powerful presence in my life, and in that of the herd! I know how deeply he also touched many of you.
The truth is, our lives are never the same after the departure of someone who has had such a defining influence on us. During my final days with Shoki it became clear that this would not just be his transition. It has to be mine too. And the herd’s. One chapter of our lives is closing, and although it is still difficult to imagine, another is already opening. It’s pointless to pretend that things can, or should, return to how they were. Everything has shifted. Time cannot be rewound. Forward is the only way home in life.
Thankfully, Shoki made a point of helping me find the courage I will need to turn the page and boldly continue writing what will always be our shared story. The next chapter will take place after Shoki’s physical presence in my life is gone but it can only be written using the wisdom he shared while he was here. Life is cumulative like that. Shoki gave me the courage to move forward by reminding me who I am and what my soul has always known its current purpose is. I’m here on this earth, in this lifetime, to partner with the horses who cross my path so that together we may create a greater awareness and a deeper appreciation for what’s possible when our species unite for the higher common good.
For far too long people have been taught to appreciate horses only for their physical power, utility and beauty. But that’s akin to saying people have no value beyond what can be seen and understood about us from the outside. In this world where focusing outside of ourselves to find fulfillment and happiness has become the relentlessly unsatisfying norm among humans… learning to make emotional connections with horses (or simply watching as they make deep emotional connections with one another) can remind us that everything of true value already resides within ALL of us.
With Gratitude,
Kim
