Why Horses?

Why Horses Speech, by Gloria Williams

Hello everyone, I get the privilege of speaking on behalf of our Healing Strides Horses.
Usually, when I enter this arena, it's either to work with one of our horses or a group of eager students wanting to explore their bond with the horses. I must say, I am not the best with public speaking in traditional classrooms, but I've jokingly shared to friends and colleagues that if I could speak in the arena where I teach, I'd do just fine. Tonight, I have the opportunity to do just that, as I speak on behalf of our four-legged team members here at Healing Strides.
The daily responsibilities of a Healing Strides horse are beyond what we can fully comprehend, but let's take a moment to envision it together this evening. For our horses to perform their influential roles, they must feel secure in their surroundings, which means their physical, mental, social, emotional, and nutritional needs are consistently met—much like our own needs as a human.
If any of you have spent time with our horses, you may have noticed that they appear to be relaxed, happy, calm, curious, and willing. This demeanor is the result of the safe environment we've worked hard to cultivate and maintain, where they are able to trust us and we are able to trust them to carry out their extraordinary work. Our horses are more than just animals, they are a foundational part of our team.

Now, to answer the question of why are horses such a foundational part of our team?
Horses are prey animals, designed to be exceptionally sensitive to the environment around them so that they can detect potential threats. A horse has the unique ability to sense energy levels, body language, and emotional state from up to thirty feet away. As herd animals, their survival depends on strong social connections and communication within their herd. This social instinct and sensitivity enable horses to genuinely tune in to the emotions and intentions of those around them, including humans. Furthermore, horses possess the remarkable ability to fully embrace each moment, remaining focused on the present without dwelling on the past or worrying about the future. I like to think if only we, as humans, could act as horses, we’d might be in a better place.

As we continue, I want to explore deeper into how horses truly change lives here at Healing Strides.
We serve diverse populations who face personal challenges, each with their own unique background, experiences, needs, and aspirations. From veterans learning to cope with PTSD, to children on the autism spectrum. From individuals battling depression, anxiety, addiction, to those who experience physical challenges, each person who walks through the gate brings their own unique story.  But In return, our horses meet each person where they are, without judgment; offering a genuine form of acceptance, connection, and curiosity.

The horses help us to step out of our own minds and become present with them. From the smallest of horses to the largest, each seeing the good in people, extending trust to the person’s inner self. The self that may be broken, grieving, or lost. It’s the moment when you feel a quiet, genuine connection- the moment you begin to believe in yourself, that things can get better, and that healing is possible. They provide us with a glimpse of goodness in this world. When you encounter that special horse for the first time and think “I connect with this one because she’s different and misunderstood like me”. You’re able to find a safe space, where you can lower your defenses, feel secure, grounded, loved, and truly heard. Cultivating a bond from our unspoken words that is built on trust and mutual respect, which brings us a sense of hope, peace, comfort, and belonging. Their gentle and selfless nature, yet powerful souls, leave us with amazement and awe.
Their influence is undeniable, leaving a lasting impression on those they touch, inspiring people of all ages. From the young girl who signs her horse, “willow” and “kookie” the moment she sees them, to the adult who has overcome adverse experiences, the horses’ stories mirror our own and encourage us to not give up and to embrace the possibility of healing. The horses, with their free-spirited nature, resonate deeply with us, teaching us how to build confidence, resilience, and perseverance in the face of adversity.
They challenge us to step out of our comfort, to grow, learn, and break down barriers. They bring our hearts joy. They are someone we look forward to seeing each week. They become our best friend, the shoulder to cry on, to celebrate with, and the trusted listener.
At Healing Strides, we have the privilege to witness the human-horse connection and how it transforms lives each day. As I look out at all of you, I am reminded of the countless lives our horses have touched. Their intuition, kindness, and grace help us to create a space where our community can heal and flourish. So next time, you see one of our horses, take a moment to appreciate their strength, wisdom, and their contribution. Knowing that there is a heart that beats in harmony with ours, which guides us to a brighter future.
This, this is what the horses of Healing Strides do and this is why they are such an important part of our team.

Before I close I want to read an anonymous poem from the horse:
“When you cannot walk, let me help you run. When you are afraid, let me teach you to trust. When you are weak, let me help you build strength. When you can’t find your voice, let us speak without words. When you want to give up, let me show you how far you can go.”

I want to thank you for being here tonight, for supporting our mission, and for believing in the strength of the human-horse connection.