Health: The Love Connection

Some months ago, in celebration of having recovered from one of those "bad clusters" in life, with my husband Walt and I both blindsided by serious accidents and health issues, we decided to buy a horse.

Sammy Rose, a chestnut quarter horse, arrived in our lives, and we were instantly smitten. He knows when we drive up, whinnies as we approach, and nudges and "lips" us both with delight. However, I don't think we are his first love.

His love interest is Operetta, a youngster, quite flashy and spirited, perfect for a date or even a long-term relationship. She became his next-door stallmate, and they were always nose-to-nose across the fence. (Yes, we wanted them to be together, but the facilities aren't able to support that.)

All was well until Operetta developed some challenges with her canter and needed to visit a local trainer for a few months. As soon as Operetta moved away, Walt and I noticed a huge change in Sammy Rose. She had been running at Brain State 1 often. Now she was running at Brain State 4, rather grumpy.

We were joyfully anticipating Operetta's return, and the photo above shows the moment. The two "lovebirds" were back together . . . and that reminded me of all of us. Who is your Operetta who calms, soothes, and loves you . . . the one you can be playful with, and the one who does not judge you no matter what?

We are all lovebirds, aren't we? Just finding ways as we spiral up to love ourselves, love others, love the spiritual, and love life – even when it is gritty or a few clusters of challenges come our way . . .