I am writing this note to honor a good man who served as one of the original and long time Heartland Girls Ranch Board members. I only learned of Henry Walsh’s passing last week as I was away on vacation through the holidays. I was quite sadden to hear this news and want to also give my condolences to his family. Henry dedicated his time and farming expertise to Heartland for many years, even after he resigned from the board, I remember him stopping by to check on the farm operations and lend advice every now and then.
I would like to share something special that happened during his processional and graveside service. I share this second hand from Heartland’s barn staff who witnessed the event. We at Heartland are keenly aware of how are horses “seem to know” and daily demonstrate their own keen awareness. I believe this is a God gift. According to the events reported, As Henry’s processional traveled to the Saint Frances Cemetery our horses ran alongside the cars as they traveled along our property toward the cemetery. They then dispersed once the cars arrived. As the trumpet played to honor Henry’s years of military service, it was observed that all of the horses moved back over to the graveside and stood at what appeared to be “at attention” through the playing of the song. Once done they went back to their normal mode of grazing. I choose tobelieve the horses knew and were honoring a man who had dedicated much of his time to the success of Heartland Ranch! Thank You Henry!
Everyday we see amazing things happen down at the barn at HGR! The relationships the girls form with their assigned horse is a wonderful thing to witness. The trust and care exhibited by horse and girl as the girl learns to become a "capable leader" of her horse. The horses mirror the girls attitudes, and behaviors allowing the girls to learn and reflect about themselves. The horses seem to observe and "speak" into the girls' lives, helping them to connect and heal from past wounds. Sometimes despite a horse assignment by Bridget our Horse Program Director, a horse will pick a girl and simultaneously that girl is drawn to that particular horse. Bridget will reassign at those times knowing that the pairing is best for both. Yes, God did a good thing when He made horses! They do just "seem to "know!".
CeCe Terlouw