Transition is a topic that often arises with Empowered By Horses & Friends’ clients. We talk about how to navigate the discomfort and unpredictability of change. We explore how letting go of what no longer feels in alignment can often make room for something new to emerge, and we create space for the uncomfortable emotions that may come as a result. Now it is our turn. And while everyone at EBH&F has experienced these feelings before, it is the first time we will experience them together as a team, this beautiful and spirited team. Come January 1, 2025, EBH&F will no longer be offering youth and children services but will instead be focusing on adults (16+), especially those working in Public Safety, and educating the next generation of people passionate about including nonhuman animals in a therapeutic practice.
When I began Empowered By Horses (aka Unbridled Potential) back in 2008, I imagined a somewhat different future. I envisioned offering equine retreats to women, especially those in law enforcement. But the emotional scars left over from twelve years as a police constable held me back. I knew I wasn’t far enough in my own healing journey to support others. What took hold instead, was a passion for working with children and youth facing adversity. And that path has rewarded me multiple times over these last sixteen years with both wise and joyful learnings.
The children and youth who have come to the farm, some regularly for 5 or 6 years, not only created strong bonds within themselves, but with me and the animals. I have learned so much from each person and have been humbled to witness the power in these young humans in finding their passion, their voice, and their desire to find safety in being themselves. It gives me hope for a future filled with love, respect for other humans, nonhuman animals and the planet.
As for the facilitators who have worked and laughed and shared of themselves, I could not have imagined a better group of people to work alongside. I value each and every one of you and know that the bonds we formed, and the friendships we created will transcend this time of change. Thank you from the bottom of my heart to Lindsay, Kirsten, Jonathan, Melissa, and Mary (who is staying at EBH&F) and former team members, Leann, Kylie and Sharolyn. As you move on to other endeavours to grow your own unique and wonderful practices, I wish you all the best and know you will continue to be a positive influence in the lives of the people you work with.
As for me, I am most excited about honouring my childhood dream. At ten years of age, I became a vegetarian (now vegan). Even though I lived in a household of omnivores, I instinctively had a moral belief that animals have intrinsic value and the right to live without harm or exploitation. Back then, declining to eat meat was the only way I could give voice to these feelings. Fast forward some four decades and I now know I have more power to act than just changing the way I eat. I’m excited to begin incorporating the teachings of the Humane Education Masters Program in which I am currently enrolled . Stay tuned for more news on that front.
With that said, I have no regrets of the detour I took sixteen years ago: I learned, I grew and was gifted with the treasures of the many people I met. And as I said at the beginning, when we close one door, another opens. So, as I gently close the door of working with youth and children I open another to three areas of focus: Training Animal Assisted Practitioners; working with Public Safety personel; and facilitating group and individual adult sessions* with a somatic focus. Moreover, I will continue taking courses to expand my knowledge of Animal Assisted and somatic practices.
Many thanks to all of you – clients, families, colleagues, community services – you were what made Empowered By Horses &Friends what it is today.
* We will continue to offer programs to select children and youth groups that we have been working with for the last several years.