I’ve always felt a kindred, sacred connection to horses: They are majestic and bold and mystical. I am a woman who adores all animals, so while it’s nearly impossible for me to choose a favorite, it would undoubtedly be the horse. Many American indigenous cultures consider the horse as significant to man and womankind as fire: Horses turned people from slow to fast moving creatures. Moreover, horses bridged man and womankind from earth to heaven as horses enabled shamans to fly through the air and reach heaven.
Not too long ago, I learned the Lake Tahoe region had wild horses. I was heading to Tahoe and my younger son was in need of a day off from skiing, and I wondered, perhaps we can find a way to see some bands of wild horses? Serendipity led me to find JT Humphrey, a local nature photographer; soon thereafter I also discovered he was a steward of the land and a noble guardian of the many bands of wild horses whose bloodlines go back to the conquistadors.
I took a chance and called JT, hoping he would pick up a number that he didn’t recognize. He not only picked up my call, but also shared he just had a cancellation and a tour became available in two days.
I could hardly contain my enthusiasm as I gave a wink to divine timing.
My younger son and I had the most extraordinary adventure. We visited the many bands of wild horses in the Nevada foothills just after sunrise. Because JT was trusted, they allowed my son and I close access and we were able to simply dwell in their majestic presence. It was remarkable to watch Zorro, the band’s leader, communicate with and guide the other horses. Soon thereafter, something astonishing occurred, though I was completely unaware of its significance. Zorro, the band’s leader, laid down close to us, taking a rest and relaxing on the Earth as the cold wind moved our hair about. I’ll never forget the surprise on JT’s face. He was awestruck that Zorro was comfortable enough around us to lay down. Apparently Zorro—or any band leader for that matter—laying down signaled a sign of deep trust that was so remarkable it’s almost never seen. JT said he hasn’t seen Zorro lay down since, and it’s been a couple years.
The picture here is the picture JT took of Zorro laying down within a short distance from us. Unless you know the back story, you’ll miss how extraordinary this moment truly is.
What an honor.
May we hold sacred the home that Earth is to so many species of life.
Aho.
Aha.
And so it is.
Zorro – Photo by JT Humphrey
