@santolina You have shown us your bravery to post your story here. I am grateful to your sister, also, that she told you about this forum. Is she a member here, also?

I worked with racehorses for about 14 years, traveling all over the country, and learning what they had to teach me. Like you said, they were great educators on perseverance. Recall those lessons when you feel down, how you usually had that one many thought wouldn't "make it"? But that one horse kept trying, trusting you, and found a slightly different style or step, but would persevere and succeed. Recall that when you feel down. I had one fellow who was sour, and unhappy, and frankly overraced. But I took that as a challenge, found his "soft spot" and helped him become a happier horse.

You have a challenge around you each day. That is, to be nice to yourself, to value yourself, and know you are here for a reason. Don't forget to be kind to yourself, find a bit of happiness each day, whatever that might be. It may be a beautifully prepared meal, or a space decorated just so, or a garden planted. Can you use your experience with the horses to volunteer with a therapeutic riding group?

Please come back and let us know how you are today. We care!
Ginger