Sometimes people get so focused on training us they forget that part of being successful with us is building a partnership.
Building that partnership involves far more than just riding.
Sometimes my lady will just come out into our pen and spend time with us. I like it when she comes around just to be there. I always join her and stay near because she has a nice calm energy that I like to be around.
As long as I have good manners she will let me come close and touch her. If I am gentle and respectful, she allows me to rub my lips on her face. She and I have been through a lot together. She helped me to get better after breaking my neck and it took me years to recover so we have a very strong bond that is very unique.
My young friend Story is very smart and she watches how I interact with my lady. She is so much more trusting now. She approaches and wants to be a part of things. My lady is very patient with her and just allows Story to advance and retreat as she feels comfortable.
This time just allows us to learn how to be comfortable around our humans. We are very aware of how our people feel. We can tell your mood from a great distance so it is important for you to remember to leave your day behind when you come out to spend time with us.
We don't understand why you seem upset and all it does it make us want to run away. When you are there with us and focusing all of your attention on what we are doing it makes all of the difference. Your calmness and centred behaviour makes us want you to be our leader.
It takes years to build a true partnership.
