Hello there, fellow equines! Emma here, a grey draught horse with a penchant for long gallops and an even longer memory. It's the year 2073 and the world of horses continues to be a whirlwind of excitement and change. From my humble abode in the rolling hills of Hayfield, near the lovely city of Aberdeen, Scotland, I get a glimpse of just how far we've come.
This year, much like any year, seems to be overflowing with news from across the world! Let me catch you up with what’s hot in the equestrian realm this year.
The Rising Star of Therapeutic Riding
Remember back in the 20th century, when we were mostly thought of as agricultural companions? Well, that's no longer the case! Our capabilities have expanded, and we’ve really stepped into the limelight thanks to the incredible field of therapeutic riding.
From helping people with physical challenges improve their balance and mobility to offering emotional support for those going through tough times, we horses have become instrumental in a multitude of ways.
Here in Hayfield, we’ve had a centre for therapeutic riding for years now. Watching the humans interact with us and gain strength and joy is truly humbling. It makes you realise how important the connection between horses and people truly is.
Racing, But Not As You Know It
Speaking of our place in society, let’s dive into racing. I wouldn't be surprised if some of you have forgotten what we used to do back in the day. Back in the 1900s, our races involved high speeds and the adrenaline of a competitive sport. Today, that's a completely different scene. It's all about cooperation, teamwork, and endurance.
While we still enjoy some thrilling competitions, most racing now focuses on long distance trail races where riders and horses have to navigate different terrain and challenging landscapes. Think of it as a test of both our athletic abilities and our bond with the riders!
Imagine me, with my big hooves and powerful build, tackling mountain passes, splashing through streams, and navigating tight rocky trails. There's a reason why our long strides and muscular power make us perfect for this!
Horse-Back Hunting: An Evolving Practice
It’s not all fun and games though. One subject that often stirs a bit of debate is horse-back hunting. While some consider it a part of tradition and heritage, others, like me, believe we can live happy lives without involving ourselves in practices that cause suffering to other creatures.
Over the last couple of centuries, thankfully, there’s been a considerable change in perspective. Many of the practices considered ‘cruel’ in the past are now frowned upon by most modern communities. Even hunting for sport, a topic that stirs many debates, has drastically changed its approach. It now prioritises sustainable management and eco-conscious practices.
A Horse's Dream: Life on a Working Farm
If you were to ask me about my perfect life, I'd tell you I wouldn't want to be anywhere else but on a working farm. Life here in Hayfield is beautiful, filled with the scent of fresh hay, the sound of hooves on gravel, and the feeling of a steady breeze through my mane.
You see, my family here has a rich history of working horses, and it’s in my blood to carry on that tradition. We are, in a sense, the stewards of the land. We work the fields, help gather crops, and carry logs from the forests, all while making sure the farm continues to be the lush and productive haven it’s always been.
Life on a farm is never boring. There's always a new task to learn, a new challenge to overcome, and the satisfaction of contributing to something greater than myself. Just the other day, I was helping my human friend, Callum, deliver a new batch of our farm’s famous Hayfield Honey. We transported it by carriage to a nearby town, making sure it arrived fresh and full of flavour!
A Word on Technology: Where the Horses Stand
You’ve all probably heard that the world has progressed tremendously in terms of technology, and for the better! And our equine community isn’t behind! Think of the modern advances in horse shoes, tack and riding gear. They are lighter, more comfortable, and built with innovative materials that support our movements and enhance our performance.
And let’s not forget the wonderful advancement of horse communication! Imagine that, being able to communicate clearly and easily with other horses! This fantastic development came about thanks to a revolutionary brainwave monitoring device that allowed us to connect directly through thoughts and emotions. While there’s a lot of learning happening on this front, imagine how enriching it’s going to be to interact with humans in a more intuitive way!
A New Dawn For Our Equine Community
So here we are in the year 2073, standing at the crossroads of history. As I look back, I see the incredible journey we’ve been on – from ancient work animals to our current role as compassionate companions and therapeutic allies.
The future, from what I see, looks brighter than ever. There’s so much potential for us as horses. And while I am excited to see what awaits us, one thing remains constant - the deep bond we share with humans. This is the cornerstone of our story, the driving force behind our achievements, and what makes our journey together so special.
Let’s gallop forward with optimism and continue to make this world a better place for all living beings.
Until next time, Emma.
