"Whoever may have been so detestably your enemy, let them be cheated of their malignant triumph... by seeing how nobly the conciousness of your own innocence and good intentions support your interests. It is a reasonable and laudable pride which resists such malevolence."
Elinor Dashwood, Sense and Sensibility by Jane Austen
Not only does this apply as far as silly men named John Willoughby (oops, did I give that away?) it applies to pretty much any time somebody may say something malicious or disheartening to you. One must simply be proud in the fact that they know who they are and they don't care what others may think. You know who your friends are, you know how you want to do things, you know what feels best to you, you know who you do and don't look up to for advice. Only you, in the end, can make the decision. Don't be afraid to let others influence you, and don't be afraid to think "That doesn't sound right to me."
Ever since owning Greta I've had to repeatedly tell myself a message similar to this quote - as I just discovered it not but two weeks ago! - and often it was my parents or trusted trainers telling me. I like the path I'm taking with Greta. I'm glad I'm learning how to really ride my horse and make her a happy, relaxed, well-rounded partner, and not just a how we can win shows. For if one can truly ride a horse, then they can win any show they darn well please, if they choose to do so.
I like Greta being barefoot. I like not having to stress about a show season when we're not ready for it. I like my trainer. Scratch that. I love my new trainer! I love my pony, and I like the path we're taking, because I think it will set a great foundation for both of us. I'm happy, and I won't let anyone's demeaning comments change that.
Not like I have received any lately. Nothing but, "Is that Greta?! She looks so beautiful and well taken care of and relaxed!"
Yeah, I know. She's kind of awesome like that.
But it's just a topic I wanted to touch on since the discovery of that wonderful quote.
Now look at this happy horse! She likes to pose with friends.
Truer words are rarely heard. That those words full meaning is understood by someone your age, well that is just profound. And here I was ready to write off most of your generation as creatures of an entitlement mentality. Bre, stay smart, stay calm, and show us your greatness. L=
ReplyDeleteDefinite like! :)
ReplyDeleteGood perspective to have in life.
ReplyDeleteGreta looks so sweet in her picture.