MARK RASHID

by Sharon Dial

Subject: Mark Rashid clinic - a humbling experience

Nine of us had the good fortune to spend this last weekend with Mark Rashid. Beth Anne (and her husband), Amie Slate, Ima Mary (and her husband) and Susie Wilson - all subscribers to this List - were among those in attendance.

I would describe Mark Rashid as kind, gentle, insightful, wise, and humble He has the patience of a saint. He seems to never tire, physically or emotionally. He's "right there" for you and your horse every moment He gives private, one-on-one time to each horse and rider. This was a unique experience for me

The time with Mark was very humbling for me, and I believe for the other riders as well. I will never handle my horse the same - and thank goodness for that! hadn't realized how much of a sensitivity void or gap I had in my training (my words, not Mark's )

Despite having read Mark's delightful books; despite having read the glowing clinic reports posted to this list, I wasn't prepared for the revelations of this weekend.

For many years I've been studying Natural Horsemanship Now at last I've come face to face with my own personal "truth" (it was different and yet still similar for all of us at the clinic) I learned that I had NOT been considering my horse (to use the title of Marks book). Over the years I had learned a good deal of technique and mechanics without having worked out the relationship aspect between horse and human that we on this list spend so much time discussing; i.e, the ethics of horse handling and training

If you and your horse are fortunate enough to work with Mark Rashid, and you allow yourself to put aside your defenses, assumptions, pride and mindless habits - just to consider objectively yet compassionately what the heck you're doing with your horse and why ....... well, after you catch your breath, you might be amazed how differently you'll see things Your horse will thank you for this enlightenment, of that I'm certain.

Sharon

Temecula, California