Mentoring is the gift from one generation to the next, it makes living so much easier and learning so much fun! Charlie is a 10 year old Amish trained Belgian gelding who came to the farm to keep Dolly company. Dolly is a 2 year old American Cream Filly. This past year, Charlie has been working with Dolly on a daily basis. First showing her how to respond the weather, herd hierarchy and horse language. Then to being tied up and standing still for periods of time longer than a minute. He teaches her how to respond to hoof trimming... just relax and give the farrier your foot, don't dance around and get tired.
Now they are venturing out into the world of new sights and sounds. Instead of just fear and nerves, Dollie moves between fear and calm because Charlie shows her the way.
This summer Charlie is showing her the story of having someone ride on your back, first the saddle blanket, saddle, bridle and then human.
I should mention Charlie has some help... my careful and patient brother William.
May we all mentor and give our gifts to the next generation.
More on Charlie and Dolly here.