It’s A Wonderful Life!

Valonia and I competing at Hitching Post yesterday Valonia and I competing at Hitching Post yesterday

Even though I was born in the mid-eighties, I grew up watching serious oldies, thanks to my mom. My two sisters and I have fond memories of being cuddled together on our family couch watching movies like, “Meet Me In St. Louis,” “Singing In The Rain,” and “It’s A Wonderful Life.” Most of our friends and significant others think we are bizarre for not only watching and owning these classics, but for getting together frequently and watching oldies marathons. Because I know these movies inside and out, I can tell you that the 1946 classic, It’s A Wonderful Life, directed by Frank Capra, was one of the most popular and uplifting films of its time. The main character George Bailey (James Stewart) ultimately recognizes his life as magnificent, even in its monotonous and drab nature.

Because this particular movie has been a staple in my life, I frequently revisit the charming actors and actresses and the meaning behind the films. Yesterday I competed at a schooling show at Hitching Post Farm and while I was cooling my horse off after a really fun xc course, I paused and thought about my life. I do this on an occasion, and in hindsight I should think about this more often. I am incredibly lucky to be able to do what I am doing right now.

I wake up every morning and ride horses, and then I get to write about riding my horses. I am able to go on long trail rides up beautiful mountains, trails and fields. I can practice my flat work in a large arena with perfect footing. I am able to jump as much as I need to, and I have amazing mentors and friends I can learn from. Getting bogged down in the drama, the chaos and the constant disappointments are common occurrences. We tend to get so caught up in the NOW, that we forget to look at the big picture.

Whether you work in an office from 9-5 and ride before or after work, or you wake up and ride all day and that is your job, perhaps we should pause from time to time and realize how incredibly lucky and fortunate we are. We are able to ride, compete, gallop, jump and so on. We are doing what we love to do, otherwise we wouldn’t be doing it. In the midst of the lame horses, the vet bills, the falls, and the bad scores, we should remember that this is a pretty amazing life we have, and we ought to be thankful.

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