There were nine of us—eight people of colour. I came to build on my growing confidence around big animals, which for me often represent big, scary humans—especially men. This was level two for me: getting close without fear. In the field, I stood still and watched. A couple of horses approached, and I noticed that sudden movements startled them, mirroring the fear inside me. Being present with their sensitivity helped me understand my own vulnerability.
One horse came close and, for the first time, I stroked her mane and head with less fear. She looked into my eyes and we shared a quiet, calm moment. Another horse joined, and soon I was between two large beings, both allowing me to be close. In that stillness, something shifted—I felt trust, and emotions rose as I realised I was breaking through an old barrier rooted in childhood. I once heard that my fear frightened others; now I saw how, by softening that fear, trust could grow. This experience helped me connect more deeply—with the horses, and with myself. I’m learning I can be less afraid to show who I really am.
