The Encouragers

As I begin to revamp my website, I thought I'd take this opportunity to look back and reread a few of the blogs I've written. I admit I was quite surprised to see I've published thirty-three of them since November 2023...the majority written primarily about my own healing...documenting my thoughts, emotions and the lessons learned while participating in the Equine-Assisted Learning Program offered through a local non-profit: Barnabas Horse Foundation.

As a former paramedic, writing has become an important part of my journey...a way to process traumatic events that have on a number of occasions hindered me from moving forward with my life...while also sharing with others the struggles often associated with PTSD and depression...and more importantly, how those struggles have the opportunity to shift from debilitating to triumphant, all while being present within a sacred shared space with a couple dozen horses.

These incredible horses have played a huge role in where I was when I first arrived at the farm and where I am now...but there are others, besides the four-legged, who have shared in that role in an equally important way.

I've said many times, I would not be here if it wasn't for Barnabas. As a matter of fact, I wouldn't be here if it wasn't for each horse and each coach...the unique experiences each bring to the table, and the lessons they teach are invaluable.

After watching the sunset this evening, I felt a tug to write about a special group of individuals...the ones who give of themselves day in and day out...the ones who are not only caretakers of the farm and the herd, but the ones who also hold space for those of us who feel broken, unseen and unheard ...the ones looking for connection.

It's easy sometimes to get wrapped up observing...and working with...the horses. However, at Barnabas, it's a mutual partnership between the horses, staff and volunteers...a partnership of service and healing. Long before, and after sessions with clients, there are still chores to be done, paperwork and grants to fill out, donation drive videos to record, programs and sessions to plan, media events to prepare for, training sessions to participate in and travel to, phone calls to be made, fundraisers to set up and attend, horses to shuffle to vet appointments, speaking engagements to prepare for and attend, fences to mend, etc...the list exhaustive and endless....

It takes special people to do special things in order to make a difference in the community they have willingly chosen to serve...

To everyone at Barnabas: Sue, Jenn, Tiffany, the part-time staff and volunteers...know that you are seen and appreciated more than you know. The work you do is not easy. Your hard work and dedication does not go unnoticed and it is the reason this foundation continues to grow and hold fast to its commitment..."to encourage hope and healing..."

I remember being told at my first group session that the name Barnabas means "encourager." There can be no truer name for an organization who works tirelessly assisting survivors of crime, veterans and first responders on their journey to..."hope and healing through fellowship with horses."

Thank you for your willingness to be there when needed, to journey with all who enter the gate, for holding space and offering programs that allow for growth and healing...and for providing a peaceful place to gain new ways of seeing and doing things that assist your clients in moving forward physically, emotionally and spiritually... within a healthy, safe, positive and nonjudgmental environment.

Thank you for always being...Encouragers.

~Parker