Aurora Magazine 2019

her. Her ears are upright with a slight inward curve. They perk up as I speak to her. Valentine’s mobile nose is like velvet, her lips are agile enough to pick a treat delicately from my hands. After I have thoroughly brushed Valentine, and Bev has groomed her mare, Jessie, we saddle up and head out to the trails. The act of going out on the trails does not guarantee an oppor - tunity to fly. As with many endeavors, the circumstances must be right and be aligned to allow the ultimate in joy and release. If the trail is not too wet or slippery, if heavy rains have not eroded the trails to expose rocks, if pedestrians are not too numerous, we will canter. Cantering is flying on Valentine. Walking on horseback, or trotting steadily, posting up and down rhythmically with her steps is indeed pleasant: I would not forgo it. Flying, as we canter, floating a few feet above the ground, smoothly rocking forward and back: that brings the most toe-curling sigh from my entire being! It is the completeness, wholeness that I imagine heaven to be. Unfettered, without fear, One with the most powerful Be - ing. No barriers of my human frailty between us. Trusting in the strength, agility of this Other and finding complete release. We canter for several minutes, and always, always, I sigh as we slow to a trot then a walk. It is the sensation of bringing my feet back to the ground. Awakening and re-entering this reality. As with the dreams of my childhood, I could feel disappointment that the flight has ended, however, this gift is tangible. I feel it still, I smell the truth of it on my hands as I drive home, and it sings in my heart. And, I will fly again.

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