What makes a Mustang person?
I've been asked many times in the past few weeks some seriously “random” questions about “my” Mustangs.
Granted, I’m always thrilled to talk shop with those that are interested and want to learn about our living legends. But in
the community I am now living in, horses are seen differently. And Mustangs - well, they might as we'll be two-headed, fire-breathing , baby-eating T-Rexes.
Sometimes | shake my head at the comments, sometimes I just “agree to disagree”, but sometimes | get hard-core offended.
This week, I had one of those “get offended” days .
Someone said to me “you don't look like a person who does Mustangs”.
Huh??? what does a “Mustang person” look like exactly?
I can tell you what they don’t look like. They don't look weak minded folks. They don’t look like cheaters or those willing to “give up” easily on a challenge. They don't look like wimps, whiners, or cry-babies.
What they do look like are passionate people who can think, feel and carry a sense of pride in their bones - and I mean carry it like a boss! They understand great things involve a bit of risk, some luck, a lot of heart, and sometimes, actual blood, sweat, and tears.
They care to the core and they understand that “owning” a Mustang is a lifestyle. They understand that Mustangs are not “JUST” a horse. They understand their plight.
They are often patriotic, gun-toting Americans who value hard work & don’t mind dirt under their nails or sweat on their brows for something they love. Their Mustang falls into the same category as “don’t mess with my wife, kids, dogs or grand babies.”
What most don't realize about Mustangs is that many are successful family horses, barrel racers, ranch horses, and hunter jumpers. I even know a few who pull carts. The really good ones go on to be great dressage or reigning horses. The best of the best are trail boss extraordinaries! They carry your kids, grandmas, your dreams, and your heart. These all get “there” through patient gentling and great trainers.
Because of their once wild life, and the trauma of having their freedom stolen, removed from their homes, and torn away from their family, friends, and herds - they just know things a domestic horse will never know. As such, most think all Mustangs are the “wild” they see on tv and in movies. Given the right patience, love, care, and training, these horses CAN do great things.
Now, yes - some are meant to stay “wild” - I own one of those. BUT, even he is kind as long as I check my ego at the gate .
I think I will proudly wear the label of “mustang owner” - whatever THAT looks like.
Yep. I own a legend (or 6).
