“For the Love of Zephyr and Thunderstorms”
Less than 100 days ago, I met the Bureau of Land Management’s #3395—a bay gelding mustang from Wall Canyon, California. I named him Zephyr, meaning a gentle breeze or westerly wind. In a way only befitting of his name, thunderstorms seem to have permeated our relationship. Our first few rides were during thunderstorms, the first time I laid him down was during a storm, our first trail ride was right before a storm, and now, with less than a week before the Extreme Mustang Makeover Challenge in Gloucester, New Jersey, we ride once again to meet an encroaching storm. It is during this ride that all the hours we have spent together feel like a thousand little pieces coming together to form an extraordinary mosaic.
Ever since I was young, I have reveled in the power and electrifying energy of thunderstorms. Now I find myself anxious to feel Zephyr’s pounding hoof beats and deep breaths as we gallop to the nearest hill crest to watch the churning clouds snap with lightning bolts and drip with rain. Without the creaking leather of a saddle, we ride bareback and as a team into the storm front.
I don’t know why I trust this horse so much other than that he- this wild animal- has given me his heart, mind, and body. I can only help but relish in our partnership. As much as I am his guardian, he is my protector. I am far removed from the wildness of the world beyond my suburban life and when I feel the energy building in my bones as I hear the crickets announce the impending thunder claps, I get a sense of calm from his constant rhythm. He is unfazed by the storm and is my rock. His sighs reaffirm his calmness, and the feel of his muscles moving beneath me reminds me of his strength. This is his world. He emulates the wildness of the winds and with every ride, he allows me to see a little more through that window.
I am so thankful that this wild horse has been able to find a friend and partner in me and allow me to experience a little bit of his untamed freedom. I can only hope to continue our partnership past the competition into the years to come.
~Anna Jacob, NLHTM Intern, 2011-2012
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