Love where you live, live where you love
“All my life I've been a travelin' man”—Blind Blake
We are simply passing through this life, just like our animal companions. While we often live longer than most of our pets and horses, they provide us with immense companionship and joy, all without any expectations. I have always been drawn to animals, a connection that began early in my life.
As a boy, I would often visit my neighbor, who lived up the street from me. She dedicated her time to rescuing dogs from the local shelter. After school, I would join her and her dogs on walks around the neighborhood. Looking back, I realize that those moments were a refuge of peace and safety amid a chaotic and confusing world.
Today, my primary purpose is to provide a safe environment for those who struggle with social and emotional challenges through my work with horses. This endeavor also creates a safe space for the horses, allowing them to express their true nature.
In the early stages of my career as a PATH Therapeutic Riding Instructor, I observed that many horses would change their behaviors and dispositions when introduced to clients in need of support.
Do horses possess empathy? I would argue that they do indeed.
Hunter, my mentor and friend, has transformed remarkably from a dull, scattered, and disinterested horse into one who actively engages with children. He slows his pace to match theirs and sometimes even gives them gentle kisses by resting his lips on their ear. He has excelled in his role! Neither Hunter nor I initially recognized his gift as a therapy animal for humans. That realization emerged only when I focused on creating a safe space.
When we feel safe and at ease, our truest selves emerge. I am grateful to Hunter for helping me discover my gifts as a facilitator and instructor. Although I began this journey prior to meeting him, our encounter significantly accelerated my growth.
Our relationship is not one characterized by overt affection, but rather by a deep and enduring connection. Hunter can anticipate my movements, and I strive to enrich his life by providing him choices. We are two misfits who found each other, thanks to the owner and her generosity. Given the circumstances and reality, it is likely that I will outlive him.
For the first time in my life, I believe that even when his body is gone, our relationship will continue. If you are uncertain or facing challenges, I encourage you to watch this 20-second video.
Camron Adibi is an Equine-Human Behaviorist and a PATH Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor, holding a master's degree in education from Gordon College. He specializes in guiding children to reconnect with themselves and others through unmounted interactions with horses. By tapping into the emotional intelligence of horses, children cultivate emotional resilience and boost their confidence. They learn to regulate their emotions, trust their instincts, and more comfortably express their true selves. In a calm and supportive environment, children gain a deeper understanding of themselves, develop healthier relationships, and navigate a world that can often feel overwhelming. This work focuses not on riding but on building connection. Through gentle and grounded experiences, children discover their voice, build trust, and step into their full potential. www.camronadibi.com