Finding Solace: The Sanctuary of Horses in Turbulent Times
Every once in a while, the seismic shift in a nation’s political landscape sends ripples through the hearts and minds of its citizens. There’s nothing quite like the feeling of waking up to a world that has inexplicably shifted overnight.
The Morning After: Seeking Refuge in the Barn
"The Morning After the Election, I Went to the Barn," originally published on Horse Network, narrates the journey of Gretchen Lida as she seeks refuge from the turmoil sparked by the election of Donald Trump. For some, a significant political turn of events might prompt violent discourse or heated debates. For Lida, it prompted a visit to a more tranquil place—the barn. November 9, 2016, wasn't just another day; it was the day she sought out the familiar rhythms of mucking, feeding, and tending to her beloved animals. Talk about a daily dose of tranquility—nothing screams routine bliss more than the sweet aroma of hay!
The Equestrian Escape: Unveiling the Therapeutic Role of Horses
Ever scratched your head wondering why Lida chose horses over, say, cat therapy? Horses have been lauded for their therapeutic nature for centuries, and for good reason. These majestic creatures symbolize patience, persistence, and the acceptance of life’s inevitable setbacks. Lida wholeheartedly credits her horses, Al and Brandy, for nurturing her mental fortitude. "Who knew horses could be so wise!" she'd probably say. Achieving a small training milestone with a horse might be the equivalent of a human learning to resist that unbidden urge to press the snooze button—small victories, but mountainous leaps of progress.
Navigating Political Spheres: How Horses Unite Unlikely Allies
The equestrian community is often described as a bastion of conservatism—which isn’t shocking when one considers the nature of its rural roots. Interestingly, Lida felt isolated due to her liberal beliefs during Trump's administration. However, post-election vibes showed a ripple of collective discontent within her fellow horse enthusiasts. A shared bond was formed over broader socio-political issues such as tariffs and social freedoms. Sometimes, riding through life's hurdles requires more than holding the reins; it calls for coming together.
The Barn as a Metaphorical Sanctuary
The barn isn't just a place with doors that unfortunately never close on their own; it’s a symbol of sacred refuge. It serves as a sanctuary for diverse dialogues and new perspectives, echoing Zadie Smith’s vision for spaces that promote reconciliation and unity. In uncertain times, it’s hard to overlook the magic of shared environments that bridge political and personal divides. That old hay-strewn barn embodies solace and shared humanity like no other.
Building Resilient Communities
Lida's anecdote illustrates the potency of community, particularly in adverse times. The equestrian community, built on shared passion and mutual understanding, offers a unique platform for empathy and solidarity. More than an arena for riding and competition, it's a space where experiences intertwine like braids on a pony's mane—bound and free simultaneously. These connections enhance resilience, as members shoulder each other through the unpredictable gallops of life.
In conclusion, Gretchen Lida's recount of her barn sanctuary not only highlights personal coping mechanisms amidst political upheaval but underscores the broader theme of community resilience. We live in world where community—and the sanctuary spaces where they thrive—can’t be underestimated. So if politics or life gets you down, perhaps the answer isn’t politicians or policies, but a simple trip to gallop amid the haystacks.
Credits: Original concepts and reflections were inspired by articles available on the Horse Network, with significant insights from Gretchen Lida’s narrative. Her moving tales weave emotion with rationality, bridging the divide between sanctuary and the daily grind.
