Wild horses couldn’t drag me away as I took in the scenery and the beautiful weather surrounding this picture perfect day.
I recently had the opportunity to travel to the Salt River outside of Phoenix in hopes of catching a glimpse, and some photos, of the wild horses emerging from the foliage to drink along the river. We were told it is usually between 3:30 – 4:30, but was unsure if we were even in the right spot. We moved a little further down the river, and wondered if we would even be able to see them? These Salt River wild horses are a historic population of unclaimed wild and free horses born in the wild. According to the Visit Mesa website, historical records indicate, “the horses have been living on the Salt River reservation before the National Forest was created in the early 1900s. The wild horses are watched over by the tireless efforts of the Salt River Wild Horse Management Group. This non-profit is dedicated to the freedom of the wild horses, which has allowed them to live and wander peacefully over the years.”
As we waited and hoped for our chance encounter, we suddenly realized we couldn’t have picked a better spot. There were so many horses coming towards the river, we lost count. They stopped at the river, lining up one by one drinking from the river.
Suddenly, the horses started crossing the river towards us and I found myself very close to these beautiful, strong animals. The leader of the herd stopped and we were staring at each other for what seemed like eternity. Me, trying to get the perfect photo and the horse most likely wondering what in the world I was doing.
As I watched, trying to be quiet and still, I started thinking about how we should live more like these wild horses, especially when it comes to pursuing our dreams or building a business. I don’t mean selling everything to live “off the grid” or “in wild herds roaming the mountains of Arizona either. As I continued to observe them, I saw pride, energy and a zest for life! Many qualities we should bring into our own lives!
We should take pride in our accomplishments, just like the horses standing tall along the river. You could sense the pride in their small accomplishment of reaching water. If you are pursuing a dream or building a business, it isn’t a fast race to the finish line. It is true, slow and steady does win the race! Small “wins” every day are something to celebrate and should be, but for some reason we forget to do so. Too many times we can’t see the small “wins” because we are too focused on reaching our end goal quickly. If you took one step, big or small today, towards your dream, celebrate! You made progress, so smile and enjoy the moment!
Bring energy to today! These horses were not only drinking and looking for food, but full of energy. They just didn’t come to the river and lazily lay down hoping the water would reach their mouth, they jumped and splashed around having fun. Some days are harder than others. There are times when you are tired and just want to pull the covers up and stay in bed. Other days you might have trouble focusing and staying on task. We all have the days and will have them. Don’t fall into the trap of you are the only one who deals with these issues. However, do your best to get up, be grateful for where you are and keep moving forward. Don’t focus too much on the past or the future, just do what you can to enjoy the present. As Scarlett O’Hara says, “After all tomorrow is another day.”
Have a zest for life! These wild horses may roam freely, but truly free they are not. They face many challenges including natural food shortages, disease and even the threat of being killed. We all have difficulties and challenges we face. In fact, as a society, we have been faced with some very tough times over the last two years. It doesn’t mean we can’t still find something to be enthusiastic about and the dreams we are pursuing. Do you get excited about your dreams? For me, every time I face challenges or discouragement, I try to remember my goals and my “why.” I could have spent the entire day on the Salt River taking photographs and lost in the moment. It is this feeling that gently reminds me of the excitement I get every time I am flying my drone or holding my camera.
What gives you this feeling? What could you “get lost” doing all day? Resolve to do more of that in 2022.
If you are interested, there are many ways to support and protect these magnificent animals. Please visit the Salt River Wild Horse Management Group website for the many ways you can help assist worthy.
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6 thoughts on “Wild Horses”
Beautiful pictures and eye opening article. Thanks for sharing!
Thank you for your positive thoughts!
Absolutely stunning pictures & words !
Thank you for your encouragement!
Great pictures & description.
Thank you!