# 13 A lesson I will never forget
This week I got to see things from a whole new perspective. I worked with a new trainer and learned a new style of teaching and some useful tips to help me out. However, the most valuable tip I learned all on my own… I started the lesson off going over some basics and then tried the cantering for the second time. I had to stop immediately because the saddle started moving. Lesson learned: If you don’t tighten the girth, your saddle can end up on the side of the horse (WITH YOU IN IT!). I thought about why I didn’t tighten the girth enough and remembered: just a month ago my horse Libby tried to bite me when I tightened it too tightly. Ever since then, Libby and I have both been a little sensitive about girth-tightening.
After we stopped and tightened things up, I tried cantering again and got the hang of it pretty quickly. The more practice I had cantering, the smoother and easier it was. It’s hard to explain, but cantering really made me feel alive and powerful, kind of like riding a sports car. Makes me think of one of my favorite quotes:
“Don’t ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive, and go do it. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive” Dr. Howard Thurman
In my next lesson (my last practice before my big show!), we are going to take the lunge line off and I will lead all on my own. I’m really looking forward to it (and I am mildly terrified ;)
Please feel free to leave me a comment! I love the feedback!
Comments
Katrina, over 2 years ago
I slid off a horse once due to a loose saddle. It took me weeks to get over the whiplash from my head slamming against the ground. Hopefully you'll fare better.
P.S. LOVE THE QUOTE!
Karisa, over 2 years ago
I think my fear of horses would come back for sure if that happened to me. Good for you for getting back on. Thanks for the comment! Karisa
Kimberly, over 2 years ago
At least you know that her hypersensitivity means she is emotionally invested in your time together. Good luck at your next, and final practice!
Dana, over 2 years ago
Love the quote, great post!
Connie , over 2 years ago
Glad all worked out well. I recently got a new saddle and had tacked up, girth tight, rechecked, rode in arena walk, trot and canter, no slippage of saddle...all well. Then we walked out to pasture, I decided to stay on him and let him graze, it was a sunny day, but windy, all was calm and blissful...and then he spooked at something. Normally he just jumps to side which he did, but my saddle slid to his side as well:(...I realized it as I looked up and found my leg on his back and my hands in his mane...had to let go and bail as he was sidestepping at a trot across pasture following all the aids he was being given...I bailed, he stopped and grazed by my feet. I purchased a sticky pad for the saddle, and a breast collar and will recheck girth often until I am certain this won't happen again!! Fortunately I am well..my Sierra troxel helmet worked a charm, not dented and I had no headache or unconsciousness.