by Madelaina, age 12

Have you ever gotten upset because of a bad ride? I most certainly have. One thing I hate the most is when I allow simple problems, such as not pointing my toes to the front or letting my horse cut corners, to happen when I’m focusing on something new. It seems like I already have enough to learn without having to deal with other setbacks. But then, it mightn’t be a setback, but a challenge that helps you confront the rest of the world.

The paths upon which we walk are never smooth; some parts are rougher than other areas, some more tiring. This is especially true for horse riding. There is no such thing as a perfect ride without you making it the best. It might be something way below your riding level, like when your fingers are refusing to wrap around the reins, that is the dark cloud. People, just like horses, have bad days as well. I’ve now learnt that at every lesson it seems something new comes up — something I learn to overcome at the end.

Life is full of challenges. When you’re horse riding and it seems other tiny problems are stopping you from doing your best, it’s not because you’ve been condemned to burdens. All of these little things assist you in becoming a better rider, giving you more experience of what horses or riders can do. Don’t worry about these little problems too much, and move on. They are only temporary. Riders get over them without realizing it.

Try rejoicing the next time you keep losing your stirrups when you’re riding. It actually means you’re learning, instead of doing the opposite. You’re learning how to overcome obstacles and continue to strive forward in your riding; this is a lesson that will most certainly be helpful throughout years to come.

Don’t be afraid to confront challenges. Be confident and proud, and get back up on that horse!