Break the chains that bind.
Throw caution to the wind.
Relinguish control.
Discover freedom.

Sweat soaked my body as the blazing July sun mercilessly beat me. I could feel my horse shifting beneath me, rather uncomfortable with all of this standing around we were doing. Every movement he made transmitted through my body, as if I was merely some strange growth on his back and not a human at all. This was not always the case; maintaining such a balanced, centered position during movement is more difficult than it seems. I certainly was not the best in our cozy, close-knit stable, but by no means a complete novice. I was, and still am, extremely critical of myself. I was jarred out of my thoughts by the voice of my trainer. It was startling
.
"Alright, Beth. You're up."
Watching the others who jumped before me made my heart pound and my palms sweat. I had never done this before.
"Really? I've never jumped before."
She really must be out of her mind. I was going to look like an utter fool.
"No problem. Just trot Bay up to the middle of the fence, then give him a squeeze with your legs, and move your hands up to the crest of his neck. He'll do the rest."
My mind was racing. The 18" crossrail seemed like six feet. I asked Bay to move forward. He awakened from his dozing and his ears flicked back to check in on me. I knew I could trust him. I knew he would take care of me. So off we trotted towards the fence. As it loomed closer, his excitement grew and his stride lengthened. I closed my eyes, put my hands on his neck, and prayed for the best.

Time dripped on like molasses off a spoon. The power I felt surging underneath me and through my veins was incredible. This must be what birds feel like. I was soaring. Freedom. Finally free. My dear beloved friend released my spirit and wiped away all of my insecurities, problems, and sorrow. I am forever grateful to him for sharing himself with me and giving me a taste of freedom.