Comments - Manna From Heaven - Barnmice Equestrian Social Community2024-03-28T12:18:40Zhttp://www.barnmice.com/profiles/comment/feed?attachedTo=1773158%3ABlogPost%3A167842&xn_auth=noI think that you should go fo…tag:www.barnmice.com,2009-11-03:1773158:Comment:1678762009-11-03T23:44:52.297ZFerroushttp://www.barnmice.com/profile/Ferrous
I think that you should go for it! I am still a geeky awkward "kid" (read: geeky awkward adult who refuses to "grow up" *lol*)... and I am VERY anxious in public. I hate to be the centre of attention. Despite the fear of having a meltdown (or my young horse having a meltdown), I forced myself to enter a show in September and it was one of the best experiences of my life. I was in abject terror... so much so that I actually do not remember being in the ring... but in the end neither me nor my…
I think that you should go for it! I am still a geeky awkward "kid" (read: geeky awkward adult who refuses to "grow up" *lol*)... and I am VERY anxious in public. I hate to be the centre of attention. Despite the fear of having a meltdown (or my young horse having a meltdown), I forced myself to enter a show in September and it was one of the best experiences of my life. I was in abject terror... so much so that I actually do not remember being in the ring... but in the end neither me nor my horse had a meltdown, we gained valuable experience, and we had a fun weekend.<br />
<br />
The breeder of my horse reminded me that even experienced horses and riders have "off days"... riders may get dumped and horses may spook (I've seen some spectacular spills at clinics and shows), but those same horses and riders continue to compete. It's part of the horsey experience. She also reminded me that small shows and clinics are good places to get experience and feedback as preparation for "real shows". It is great to have a friend who knows when I need a nudge in the right direction! ;)<br />
<br />
I recently audited a clinic (with John Lasseter) and saw people far more experienced that I am make mistakes... and no-one cared. Ah, everyone makes mistakes and it's no biggie. Phew. I enjoyed the clinic so much that I have decided that I am going to muster all of my courage to sign up for the next clinic. If The Squirt is not under saddle yet, we will do a lungeing and long-lining lesson... if he is under saddle, well, we may provide even more entertainment for anyone watching. Eep, um, I'd better start gathering that courage now. Ah well, I know that we could gain so much from participating.<br />
<br />
When opportunity knocks and all... ;)