A Story of Faith

This is Faith, a 2 year old filly my son purchased based on the performance of a half sister, Grace, that he had bought two years ago. Grace, at fours years old has proven to be an extremely athletic and talented mare; although somewhat fragile emotionally or mentally.  When Faith came to us three months ago, we could see the similarities in her floaty gates and athleticism.  Not as big boned as her half sister, Faith was at a skinny and gangly teen age stage of physical development.  We could certainly see that she had all the potential as a quick and agile athlete; as she darted around her new pen scared and unsure of herself.  Many weeks went by without any development in bonding with her new owner.  In fact, after several weeks, my son was unable to catch his new mare and halter her.  In a desperate attempt to be able to handle his mare, he had resorted to roping her around the neck.  This had resulted in an angry and resentful horse.  Every time my son went in the pen she ran away, hid and kicked out at him.  Then, haying season came, and my son did not have time to focus on his sulky mare.  My husband took it upon himself to feed the mare and check on her twice daily.  He talked quietly to her and approached her cautiously.  If she turned to run, he would back away and gave her space.  This became a pattern of a new relationship: My husband whispering sweet sentiments and softly approaching her.  Gradually a trust and bond had formed. The mare allowed my husband to touch her rub her and eventually brush her.

  

Today, due to a recent injury, I had the time to go and visit Faith.  I had to experience for myself the huge development in Faith's trust in human beings. Here is a photo documentary of my experience today: 

First, the approach as I quietly wait.

Second, the inspection - you are injured.

Third, she turns into me to be touch

Fourth, she turns to look at me and she trusts me.

This is the story of Faith.  We cannot chase her around.  She is something to be experienced.  It takes time to develop trust.  It is worth the time.  You will experience magic, if you are willing to take the risk and step out in faith.  God has used horses to teach me about faith and the relationship He wants to have with us.  Faith is a gift from God.
 "To each one God has measured out a gift of faith..."Romans 12:3