This time of year we are given the opportunity to pause and reflect on the blessings we often take for granted. Our Canadian readers recently celebrated Thanksgiving, and south of the border we will be celebrating later this month. Normally, it is easier for me to focus on the blessings, but this year I find it harder.
For our readers who read Light in a Dark Time for the Northwest Horse Source, in the October issue, you are aware that Mary, one of our team is involved in an ongoing battle with an inoperable, malignant brain tumor. She has recently finished the first round of chemo and radiation. Although initial reports on the tumor following treatment are not as hopeful as we had wished, Mary continues to focus on the other people in her life. We don’t know what the future holds for Mary, but we do know that because of her attitude many people have been encouraged and loved. Her faith in God has touched many lives, more than any of us will ever know. Please keep Mary and her family in your thoughts and prayer.
In addition, this year we face the aftermath of one of the worst natural disasters in the history of our nation. Hurricanes Katrina and Rita have resulted in tremendous loss of life and belongings as well as untold suffering. As we view the images and hear the reports, it is my hope that we all do something to respond rather than just clicking the remote to another more pleasant channel. I believe that as we share we acknowledge another’s pain and in the process celebrate our blessings.
Then….the gas crises. If these fuel prices keep rising we are going to have to ride these horses to work instead of hauling them everywhere.
So how can we move toward counting blessings? For me, when it comes to tough times we are forced to look at our lives and families more closely. It’s a time to examine what truly is important in life. It’s not just about me. It’s about reaching out and helping others. There is always more than one way to look at our current circumstances and this year it is my hope that after reflection we will find ourselves better able to count our blessings.
This month we feature some incredible stories about senior horses. We had a huge response to the Senior Horse Essay Contest and are pleased to share the top three submissions with you. Read these inspiring essays as people share how their senior horses have made a difference in their lives. We also have a series of great articles on caring for your senior equine horse. Many of our regular writers have taken the time to help you focus on specific issues of concern with the aging equine.
Our November “pre-Christmas” issue is packed with special events and great gift ideas. It’s a great time to think about great ideas for your holiday gift-giving. Next month we celebrate 10 years publishing the Northwest Horse Source. We’ve got some great things in store for you!
Have a great Thanksgiving season. Spend time with those you love. Remember we will all be “long in the tooth” someday so make it count. Give your horse an extra ration of love and remember to ride!
Copyright © 2008 The NW Horse Source, LLC
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