History of Horses in the year 2083

Greetings, fellow equestrians! Emma here, your average 20-year-old grey draught horse, living a simple life in the beautiful countryside of Hayfield near Aberdeen, Scotland. As you may know, I'm an avid history enthusiast, and I thought it only fitting, for this 2083 post, to talk about our equine world today - our present! What an exciting time to be a horse, eh?

This year feels different. It's not just the crispness in the air as the Highlands prepare for their yearly chill, though the early winter frost is definitely upon us. No, it’s something much deeper. Something brimming with anticipation and hope. But, let's not get ahead of ourselves. First, let's take a peek at what we’ve got in the past.

You know, there was a time, long ago, when horses like me weren’t so celebrated. When our lives were hard work, driven by the needs of man. I hear stories from old Tom, a wise old Shire who lived before my time, about hauling carts in the dust of the city streets and pulling ploughs under a harsh, burning sun. Not exactly a dream life for a horse, right?

Then came the change - the 'Great Shift' as some call it - a transition from human dependence to a more harmonious co-existence. Humans learned, thankfully, that horses were more than just beasts of burden. They discovered our intelligence, our gentle nature, our unwavering love for those we care for. We began to be valued for our companionship, our grace, our inherent kindness. It was the start of the golden age for us, eh?

Fast forward to our times, and riding has become more than just a mode of transport. The entire world has caught the horse-riding bug, not just for the fun of it, but for its restorative benefits. Now, it's more common to see a person ride for their well-being, for connection with nature, for that soul-stirring experience only a horse can provide.

The world has embraced "Equine Wellness" in a big way, darling! From therapeutic riding for people with disabilities to equestrian yoga, you name it, it exists. This trend towards mental and physical well-being, fuelled by an innate understanding of our shared humanity, has even taken the form of “Horse Therapy,” which is honestly, a blessing for all. I hear of people finding peace, learning to relax, even dealing with anxiety, all because of the connection with horses like me.

Now, of course, we aren't simply used as therapy animals. This isn't a sob story! There’s more to life than just helping humans, wouldn't you agree?

This, my friends, is where we get into the juicy bit! Did you know, back in the day, they only had "horse shows"? Well, now there's a whole galaxy of them! There's Equestrian Theatre with its captivating dance shows and storytelling with live horses, truly pushing the boundaries of what humans think horses can achieve.

And, there's my personal favourite: The Equine Arts Festival! A dazzling affair every autumn, held in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, with all kinds of performances from horse-assisted acrobatics, to the incredible “Light Up The Highlands” event where we literally illuminate the countryside with our graceful movements.

It's like being part of a huge, dazzling play. Honestly, darling, I sometimes get lost in the spectacle myself!

Of course, all this activity requires healthy, happy horses like myself. That’s why we have a whole new approach to horse care! This goes beyond basic stabling and grooming, though I’m happy to report both are still very much in fashion, thank heavens. We're talking holistic equine care now, a holistic approach that considers all aspects of our wellbeing.

It means having natural, spacious stables with room for roaming, lush pastures, and an emphasis on nutritious and sustainable feeds. My owner, the lovely Ms. MacDonald, always takes me on long, rejuvenating rides through the beautiful rolling hills here in Hayfield. It helps clear my mind, builds muscle, and gives me the chance to feel the wind in my mane! It’s no wonder horses are living longer, healthier lives now, eh?

The most exciting thing, though, is the sheer variety of lifestyles available to us.

Do you have the wanderlust? Then you might consider a stint as a ‘Wild-horse Ranger' protecting endangered herds in the American Rockies. Ever heard of that? They're like real life 'horse whisperers,' you know. I might give it a go after my retirement from Ms. MacDonald's lovely stable!

You can even become an 'Equine Diplomat,' assisting with interspecies communication! It’s all about understanding the nuanced language of our equine brethren. A friend of mine, Willow, recently returned from a tour as an equine diplomat in Africa. It’s quite the honour, she tells me, bringing different groups of horses together.

The world has finally recognized what we horses have always known - we're much more than just 'farm animals.' We're intelligent, emotional creatures with unique needs and incredible talents, and our place is now rightfully at the heart of society, and who could argue?

So, here we are, fellow equestrians, riding the wave of progress, forging a bright new future for our equine kin.

As for me, I’ll be out in the pastures, munching on sweet grass and basking in the autumn sun. Perhaps, I'll even pen another post soon about life on the Highland moors! Until then, ride well and be happy!

Your friend,

Emma, Hayfield