It was an eye opener for me several weeks ago when a friend brought up one of her friends to meet my mini donkeys as she was thinking about getting a donkey.
Knowing they were horse people I was a bit less vigilant as they went into the pasture – I figured they were able to read body language and keep themselves safe. As I watched them make a beeline for the donkeys – it was so obvious to me, and to my horses and donkeys, although not intentional at all, this interaction was so disrespectful and rude. No greeting and no recognition of personal space. Yes – this was a mirror of how I acted just a few short months ago.
My little donkeys quickly forgave as they loved the attention, but I watched my mustang mare, approach and attempt to greet both people and she looked so taken aback and confused when her greeting was not understood. My other mare just quietly kept her space and energy away from the visitors. Since that time – every person that meets my herd – gets a quick lesson on greeting and space and it helps start all our interactions out on the right foot. Sorry that got a bit long, your work has made such a huge difference in my life with horses and I cant thank you enough for passing along your amazing gifts! With HUGE appreciation, Sarah S.