Snuffles of breath
Soft and velvet,
Hoof-beats in dirt
Wild and thunderous,
Swishing of tails
Gentle and smooth,
Tinkles of irons
Faint and subtle--
All little sounds
Echoing meaning
For the ride:
My safe haven.

The experience begins
Positive and aesthetic:
One foot stepping
In the stirrup
Swinging and settling
Lightly in the saddle.
Energy thrums
Through my veins
Living the life
Of my dreams--
Healing
Sharing
Loving
Connecting
Discovering
Shining.

With absolute,
Single-minded focus
Looking up through
My horse's ears
The running thoughts
Stop silent.
Heels pushed down,
Sitting deep,
Grounds me.
Reins gripped tightly,
My hands hold
Determination and control.
Strength permeates
The effortless,
Rhythmic trot I post.

The ride gives me
confidence and self-esteem.
My once troubled
soul has now:
Peace
Poise
Hope
Courage.
The ride takes away
my breath
leaving nothing
but freedom in
ecstasy of motion.