Article 4 - Kids & Horses
by Catherine A. McCall
Have you ever noticed how the most spirited horses will stand quietly for a child? 
I found this to be the case last summer when my girlfriend's little daughter came over, begging to meet my horses.
Five year old Julianne was adopted into our American society by my dear friend's sister. A few years ago the sisters shared with us the emotional experience of going to China to pick up the tiny girl baby who would become their new family member. Rick and I have been privileged to share Julianne's babyhood.
Julianne arrived this summer toting a cherished stuffed horse and shyly asking me if she could meet my real horses. Susan, Julianne's mother, rolled her eyes and told me how her daughter would not leave the horse subject alone and could she please come see mine? Well, of course. I was delighted to share the passion which could possibly grow into an addiction and I knew could not be denied!
Here are some pictures of the introduction of Julianne and CR Celestial Psyche. "Celestial" is out of a line bred Fadjur daughter and by the legendary Padron Psyche. She is one of the hottest Arabians I have ever owned, and I have owned many. She is in foal to Raleighs Full Moon, a fact which enthralled Julianne all the more. When I told the little girl that a Palomino baby would be born next Spring, her eyes literally twinkled in delicious anticipation. The curious thing is, Celestial isn't a horse I would put a child or an inexperienced adult on. Here she is, calm, quiet and trustworthy; seeming to understand why Julianne had come and appreciating her visit.
I ask myself, "What is at play here?" I have encountered this before as well as lived it my whole life; the child who is obsessed with horses. What is this connection between some kids and horses? How do they communicate and why are the often time dangerous horses docile with certain vulnerable children?
Why are some people, starting when they can barely walk, compelled to be with horses? I like to think it is a gene or perhaps a collective memory from several past lives, woven deep into our psyches, ringing bells of comfort and familiarity. Or perhaps the horse, like the little child, knows that she too is dependent on the goodwill and goodness of her caregiver to provide for her.
I went through some of my pictures and wanted to share this lifetime theme with you, starting with me on a horse at age three and ending with the meeting of the two lovely princesses: Celestial and Julianne. I would guess that if you are reading this, you were one of those kids who loved horses and perhaps still do.
Comments by Julianne's Mom
Dear Catherine,
Thank you so much for your thoughtfulness! I have read what you posted on the website at least six times since I first saw this and have cried each time. The sentiments that you conveyed about Julianne's love of horses is so touching as are the sentiments you share about how Julianne has touched our lives. Julianne was so thrilled when she saw her pictures with Celestial. We have been sharing this website with almost everyone we know.
When we visited with you that day and sat down at your dining room table, I was reminded how much you encouraged me to proceed with the adoption of at that time, an unknown baby girl from China. It was during our drive to the Gift Center in San Francisco that you were the first person to openly and willingly speak positively about the possibility of me adopting. Adopting Julianne was certainly the best thing by far that I have ever done, so I thank you for your part in it.
I am watching this little girl grow up and it is exciting to watch her develop her own unique interests. Her love of horses tops the list, so when we spend time with someone like you who can share in that passion,it is so special for both of us! The afternoon at your house was the highlight of our vacation.
My best to you both and thank you, thank you, thank you again!
Love, Sue