When I stepped into the role of Interim CEO, I knew close to nothing about horses. My idea of them had always been romantic at best—fleeting dreams of a future spent on a quiet ranch where Denis, my husband, and I could retire. I pictured us sipping coffee on crisp mornings, watching our grandchildren play in open pastures, laughter echoing under an endless sky. That vision, though cherished, was purely a fantasy. Horses were just part of that idyllic picture but held no real meaning in my everyday life.
Little did I know that stepping into this new role would completely transform my understanding of these majestic creatures. What I’ve witnessed since has left me in awe—not just of their power and grace but of the intricate ways that God uses them to bring healing and hope into the lives of broken and weary hearts. I’ve come to see horses as more than animals. They are vessels of connection, mirrors of the soul, and pure evidence of God’s boundless love for humanity.
Discovering Healing in the Hoofbeats
When I first stepped into the role unexpectedly, I assumed my work would mostly involve navigating operations, balancing budgets, and leading teams. (Our Program Managers, Krista and Carol, had our herd under control.) Instead, I found an extraordinary community brought together by the shared bond between humans and horses. Veterans who had carried invisible wounds from the battlefield, volunteers who sought purpose in their service, and even children facing adversity—all who crossed paths with these horses seemed to leave lighter, stronger, and more whole.
I remember watching a veteran who appeared weighed down by an impenetrable wall of pain. Initially, he struggled to stand near his assigned horse. But as time passed, something changed. The horse didn’t push or demand; it simply stood patiently, communicating through its quiet presence. Day by day, wall by wall, you could see that veteran beginning to let go. He started trusting the horse, and then, remarkably, he began trusting himself.
It brought tears to my eyes to realize this wasn’t just therapy—it was transformation orchestrated by hands far greater than ours. Who but God could design an animal so tuned to our human spirit? A creature that moves us, not just physically but spiritually, inviting us to heal, forgive, and rediscover our own value?
The Quiet Teachers of Grace
Horses teach us in ways that words never can. They aren’t swayed by our achievements or burdened by our expectations. They respond to us as we truly are, reflecting our emotions back to us with remarkable honesty. When you feel anxious, they understand. When you’re calm, they mirror your rhythm. It’s as if their very presence compels us to confront our inner selves—something most of us tend to avoid in the chaos of life.
One afternoon, while observing a group session, I was struck by how genuine this dynamic truly is. A volunteer whispered to me, “You can’t fake it with a horse.” That single sentence made perfect sense. Horses recognize dignity in brokenness and strength in vulnerability. They teach us to quiet our racing thoughts, to be present, and to breathe. Isn’t that the grace God calls us to live by? Through these animals, He gives us gentle reminders to pause, trust, and heal.
Knowing God Through His Creation
Romans 1:20 tells us, “For since the creation of the world, God’s invisible qualities—His eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made…” Horses exemplify this truth in ways that are hard to explain. They are massive yet gentle, independent yet deeply connected, strong yet tender. Each of their traits seems divinely appointed.
I often find myself thanking God during the quietest moments with these animals. They could easily overpower us with a single kick, yet they choose to serve us in ways that feel nearly sacrificial. You begin to see their beauty and purpose differently—not as creatures meant for humans to dominate, but as partners designed to nurture and heal us, teaching us reverence and humility before our Creator.
I now wonder if that dream of a ranch with Denis and our grandchildren was more than just a whimsical thought. Perhaps God was planting the seeds early, knowing that He would use this time in my life to reveal something much greater than leisure or retirement dreams. Through my role here, He has shown me not only how miraculous these creatures are but also how intertwined their lives are with ours—and how healing blurs the line between them.
A Call to Reflect
If you’ve never been around horses, you might wonder how such a bond is possible. I understand—I was in the same place not long ago. I encourage you to observe, listen, and, when the opportunity arises, simply stand beside one. Ask yourself what their quiet presence stirs within you. What can they teach you about trust? About patience? About letting go of the burdens you carry? What might God be whispering through their gentle nuzzles, their steady gaze, or the rhythmic sound of their hooves?
Our lives, intricate and often messy, are nothing short of miraculous when viewed through the lens of God’s purpose. Horses are part of this miracle. They pull us closer to the Creator’s heart, reminding us that healing is always possible, that hope is never out of reach, and that connection—true, soul-deep connection—always begins in the stillness.
Closing With Gratitude
I never imagined that stepping into this position would change how I see God, His creation, and myself. Yet here I am, feeling like every day brings a new revelation about the depth of His love. It appears in the way horses meet our tattered edges with unwavering calm. It manifests in the transformation I’ve witnessed in others—and perhaps even in myself.
The dream of that ranch hasn’t faded. But now, it holds something deeper. It’s not just a place—it’s a calling I’m starting to understand. It’s for healing, for connection, and for honoring the miraculous creatures God placed here to guide us. Isn’t that a wonder worth sharing?
A Final Invitation to Join Us
Healing and faith have a way of bringing people together, just like they do here at Henry’s Home. If this blog has stirred your heart or inspired you to reflect on the miraculous connections God weaves into our lives, we’d love for you to take the next step and join us in fellowship.
WeKinnect Global Branding Agency is honored to sponsor a table for Henry’s Home at the 39th Woodlands Community Prayer Breakfast. This event is a beautiful opportunity for us to unite as a community, lift one another in prayer, and draw closer to God’s purpose for all of us. Together, we can celebrate the power of faith, healing, and service.
Whether you’re already a part of our extended family or joining us for the first time, your presence would mean the world to us. Secure your spot at this inspiring gathering and experience firsthand the strength of a community rooted in faith and compassion.
We can’t wait to see you there. Come as you are and leave with a heart full of hope.
