When I listen to horses

 As I worked with my twelve-year-old Appaloosa this morning, I became aware that at one point we were not understanding each other. When this happens, I believe it is critical to listen to what the horse is trying to tell us. They want us to understand things from their point of view. So, we have to try our best to work out where we may be confusing them. Can we break it down into smaller bite size bits or can we present the idea in a different way?

It is so important to try rather than repeatedly bludgeoning on in the same manner, otherwise if we don't listen, the horse's voice will get louder. Bucking, rearing running away, freezing and rising frustration can result and that is not the way to build our relationship with our horse.

I am reminded of a comment from Leslie Desmond when she said. "How important is a 'Yes', when 'No' has no value.

Really listening is an important part of communication and leads to building any relationship.

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