Authors and Riders

I’m not saying training and writing are the same thing on all levels. A horse has a personality, and genetics greatly influence what it is and how it shapes up. A piece of paper always begins as simply a piece of paper. But the more experience we have in both fields, the more effective our time spent with our horses and writing becomes. Not only do we build on the good, but we also learn to be OK with the mistakes. Messing up and creating problems always creates something for me to learn from, and it might even offer material that I can use down the road for something else (with stories, maybe a paragraph. With my horses, perhaps something to remind me how to avoid a catastrophe!)

But, see? They both start out at some point as blank pages, waiting to receive our take and influence on what they should be.

Our work as horsemen is always growing and always evolving. To become truly effective, we must be open to assistance and outside influence and learn how to gain the best with our skills and knowledge. As writers, the same is true. We can keep doing the same thing over and over, and it might work out just fine. Our stories get written, and our horses get trained. But by cracking open books, talking to other writers and having them read over my work, I’ve gotten the most incredible feedback and insight. By having other respected peers step on my horses, spend time with me on maneuvers and concepts, and watch and copy what they do, I’ve also seen things change and blossom with my horses over time.

I think one of the strongest threads between the two is the need for flexibility — and grace. And, for goodness’ sake, a sense of humor. We’ve got to be OK with the process — embrace it, even! Horses and writing both take discipline, even when we lack the motivation. The time put in and hard work will always garner results. Raw talent can carry a person a distance as well, but spending time and cultivating our talents is the key to really gaining in each subject.

Technically, both “products” are finished with the heavy workload at some point. A story gets edited and published, and a horse learns how to carry a bridle, become a show warrior, pack children, work on the ranch or whatever else it is supposed to be. “Finished.” However, much as with a horse, I don’t believe a piece of writing can ever be completely finished. There are always edits to be made. Minor tweaks and outside influences can always bring improvement to a piece. Our horses can always learn, gain and stretch their talents and knowledge. But at some point, we all must find satisfaction in our work and enjoy — possibly even share — what we have created.

They are both the gears that turn my wheels, and they are both a cause of distress and obsession. The more difficult horses I ride, the better I become. The tougher subjects I write about, the more I grow as a writer. They bring joy, liberation, creativity, heavy workloads and sometimes even burnout to my life. And I continue to pursue them both with fervor and passion.

Most importantly, both topics have brought one of the greatest gifts into my life: the connection with the folks who have welcomed my horses and my stories into theirs.

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