Comments on: Riding high on horse-human communication

By: Cynthia

Cynthia — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 03:17:19 +0000

Susan, thanks for sharing this wonderful story. It reminded me of my own joyful relationships with animals in my life and with one cat in particular. I can think of several instances where there was significant communication between us and yet no words were exchanged. We used facial expressions, body movements, and tone of voice and it was rewarding to me when we understood each other.

Also, the concept of “joining up” when applied to the work environment reminds me of what the business world refers to as a “hot group.” This phrase describes a group of employees who are assigned to work together on a project and who end up becoming an extraordinary team. The joy members derive from the success of the team as they progress towards their goal strengthens their commitment and propels them to work harder.

By: Susan Salk

Susan Salk — Sun, 28 Feb 2010 17:44:27 +0000

With the concept of “join up,” I feel I’ve learned to work with the horse, rather than brow-beat my equine partner into submission. By gaining her trust and respect over time, and learning to feel my way as another herd-member might, I’ve had more success than I believe I would have if I just tried to impose my wishes on her.

Translated into an office environment, I recall some of my best experiences, like Jim’s in his laboratory, occurred when something similar to “join up” occurred. Measurable successful outcomes came when leader and we, the “herd-members” teamed up to pursue shared goals.

By: Allison

Allison — Fri, 26 Feb 2010 19:20:20 +0000

Fabulous, fascinating read! It reminds me of the “joining up” scene in Avatar, where the blue people (sorry, I forget the name of their species) link up with their flying dragons, one-on-one — and they only get that one chance (otherwise: death…eek).

There’s a certain song-and-dance to connecting across species (or even within a species!), and it’s really marvelous to witness (in fiction, in text, and in person).

Thanks for sharing.

By: jessica

jessica — Sun, 21 Feb 2010 17:49:21 +0000

Let me first begin by saying that I do not have much experience in the equestrian world. Amazingly enough, while reading your post, I felt as if I too have learned to join up with Diana! Communication between Animals and Humans are remarkable to observe and to experience. I think a majority of people can appreciate that “joined up” moment with household pets and like Jim; in the lab. Reading your post really painted a remarkable mental movie of your journey with Diana. It was definitely worth the read…and very insightful! Loved it! Thanks!