Philosophy

"That horse has so many issues."

It can be really discouraging when we find ourselves faced with a series of difficult challenges. At one point or another most horse owners or trainers have been faced with that one horse that seems to have more issues than any other. Physical issues, mental issues, emotional issues. Ailments. Illness. But I would bet that if you asked any horse owner or trainer that's had a super challenging horse which horse meant the most to them on their journey to becoming a better horse person, they would probably tell you it was the horse with all the issues and challenges.

The great philosopher Socrates was married to a woman by the name of Xanthippe. Socrates was said to have compared Xanthippe's very difficult nature to that of a strong-willed horse that helps a rider develop their skills and handle other horses more easily. He believed her harsh and challenging demeanor benefited him as it taught him silence, patience, and resilience-- all essential virtues for his public interactions and philosophical work. Socrates stated: "By all means marry: if you get a good wife, you'll be happy; if you get a bad one, you'll become a philosopher."

The horse with many issues and challenges is the horse that will keep you humble and keep you learning. That horse will take you down the rabbit holes no other horse will lead you. They will make you ask questions you wouldn't otherwise ask and seek answers you wouldn't otherwise seek. Embrace your own "Xanthippe"-- that is how we grow. Become a "horse philosopher."