One Special Horse
R
ecently, I had the opportunity to attend a Gran Prix Jumping show. I was entranced by the incredible athleticism, grace and strength of these magnificent horses. The combination of equine and human partners was breathtakingly beautiful. In my time at the event, I had the opportunity to talk to a number of the riders. One thing was evident, just like people who ride and own contesting horses, these people truly love their horses. In our conversations, several of them talked about “one special horse” in their life. It was either a horse they had ridden, owned, or had watched being ridden. Something about the experience had been permanently recorded in their memory. As I drove away from the event, it hit me that every horse-person I know has that “one special horse “in their life. Oh, there might be more than one memorable horse in our past; but one usually stands heads and shoulders above all the rest. I’m privileged to currently own my oncein-a-lifetime horse, Ace. Ace isn’t the fastest barrel horse in the world; and I’m sure he’d be faster without me. But I’ve roped calves; cut cattle from the herd; chased cattle up and down a mountainside; and just sat
and watched many sunsets all while in the saddle on him. Without any questions, each of those moments was more special because Ace was there to share it with me. I’ve set around arenas all over Indiana with some of the veterans of barrel racing. I still haven’t met one who couldn’t describe in great detail that ”one special horse.” They remember the smallest traits and mannerisms. They verbally replay a great run or a horrible injury, as though it happened yesterday. The Creator of these magnificent beings - called horses - shows us an extra dose of love in allowing us to own that “one special horse.” And, we should never forget to thank Him for it! And just as we should never forget to thank Him for these irreplaceable gifts he has given us, I think it is best for all generations to come that we never stop telling stories about that “special one” we’ve owned or ridden. We can all pray that someday they’ll have that “special horse”, too. And when I’m old, I hope it’s me still telling stories about this ride or that ride that I was privileged to share with my “one special horse.”
Looking - A Soul's Journey.indd 1
Page 43 L. Johnson, JD was born Christopher and raised in Kokomo, Indiana. He
Christopher L. Johnson
Christopher L. Johnson, JD was born and raised in Kokomo, Indiana. He graduated from a Baptist liberal arts college with degrees in PreLaw, Business and Theology; and from the University of San Diego School of Law. After practicing law for more than 10 years in Indiana, he resigned and became the legal advisor to the Superintendent of the state’s largest prison. He served as Professor and Program Chair of Criminal Justice and Business at the post-secondary level; and currently teaches Criminal Justice at Kokomo High School. In addition, he is a partner in and Operations Manager of a thoroughbred breeding and racing farm. He speaks to his students and to others about the importance of “taking snapshots of the moments” in life as a way of reflecting on our own lives. He can be reached at cutter0430@gmail.com, and his writings and thoughts can be found at www.downthebarnaisle.com.
Looking — A Soul’s Journey
Christopher L. Johnson, JD was born and raised in Kokomo, Indiana. He graduated from a Baptist liberal arts college with degrees in Pre-Law, Business and Theology; and from the University of San Diego School of Law. After practicing law for more than 10 years in Indiana, he resigned and became the legal advisor to the Superintendent of the state’s largest prison. He served as Professor and Program Chair of Criminal Justice and Business at the postinspir and ing , currently teaches Criminal Justice at Kokomo “ ... an secondary level; High School. In addition, he is a partner in and Operations Manif ul , ager of abeaut thoroughbred breeding and racing farm. He speaks to his ht about prov oking students and and to thoug others the importance of “taking snapshots of the moments” in life as a way of reflecting on our own lives. exploration of his own inner world, through the world around him ... ” $25.00 He can beillustrated reached at cutter0430@gmail.com, and his writings and — Dr. Rachelle Steiner, MD thoughts can be found at www.downthebarnaisle.com.
$
A Soul’s Journey
CHRISTOPHER L. JOHNSON
Christopher L. John has shared his hear and talent in the beautiful photogra and inspiring musi contained in this pictorial journal. Looking - A Soul's Journey describes the path taken by t author - photograp in search of life's m precious moments. quest has also led h to find God's blessi and the fulfillment knowing the Creato of the Universe in a personal way. Enjo browsing through this encouraging photography book, and allow its words and images to calm your soul and sooth your spirit.