The topic for this week is FREEDOM . . . we all have a built in desire to be free and to live our lives in the manner in which we have imagined.  It is a human right that we have fought for, strove for and dreamed of since time began.  We have the potential to live our lives in any way we choose to as a soul.  Sometimes the way we are born into a family or community dictates the chances we will have for freedom, but overall it is the call within our hearts that wins the day.

In the animal kingdom, the horse is a natural symbol of freedom that we can easily relate to.  It has the capacity to do heavy work, sports, be competitive, run races, make great companions and champions all for the pleasure of mankind.  To watch the horse in its natural habitat gives us a sense of longing and awe as we see them running free and playing in the wild.  Life seem so simple and yet fun.

We relate on so many levels to the spirit of the horse and its ability to learn, to care, to survive and to thrive in circumstances that are challenging and often difficult.  In the eyes of the horse we see the spirit of our ancestors and how  they depended on the horse for their freedom to travel and defend the community.  They were not only a friend and a companion, but a worthy warrior and protector.

Each of the various types of horses symbolizes a part of our nature that speaks to us as humans, from the smallest of ponies to the largest war horse.  Their personalities are so much like our humanness.  There are the pretty ponies, the sporty horse, the athletes and the workers. Some are even creative in dance and movement like we are as humans. 

If you are afraid of horses, there is a message in that fear that tells you to lay down your worries in life and just let your soul run free.  A fear of power, strength and intelligence can also be a message here.  To face those fears and reach out and touch the softness of one of these powerful beasts will set your soul free - even if you just imagine it, you can break free of a fear that no longer serves you in any way.

Feel free - feel powerful - feel alive and run like the wind.
Donna Hamilton