Chapter One: The Call of Chevalia

As a youth, we dream of a horse of our own—a dream woven from the threads of wonder and innocence, a vision of an unbreakable bond, a friendship that transcends all others. It is a longing that takes root deep within us, growing stronger with every whispered fantasy, every imagined gallop across open fields. This dream becomes a beacon, lighting our path with hope and the promise of steadfast companionship.

When that joyful day arrives, when the dream manifests and a horse steps into our lives, it feels as though the world has shifted, as if the stars themselves align in quiet celebration. We believe we have stepped into the heart of our dream; that we have found the harmony we always sought. But dreams, though beautiful, are fragile things, and soon the idyllic vision begins to fade.

We find ourselves standing not in the perfection of our childhood imaginings, but at the threshold of a journey—a journey far more complex and profound. Our youthful dreams drift into the distant past, becoming a forgotten memory, as we find ourselves at crossroads. Before us, two distinct paths unfold, each calling us in its own way. Blinded by haste and drawn by the allure of achievement, we often stumble onto the broader road—the one most traveled. Its shine captivates us, and its clamor drowns the quiet call of the soul. This path thrusts us into a noisy arena, filled with voices singing promises of greatness: accolades to be won, ribbons to be displayed, and applause to be gathered. Here, trainers impose their rigid disciplines, shaping dreams of mastery with words heavy with judgment. Their teachings, though outwardly polished, are often laden with arrogance and a scornful impatience for those who falter.

And yet, we press on, drawn by the tantalizing hope that one day we will be seen and admired, atop our noble steed. We envision a fleeting moment of glory, where we and our horse shine in the spotlight, basking in applause. But the pursuit of such fleeting recognition often distances us from the very bond we once dreamed of—a bond rooted not in accolades but in connection, trust, and love.

In this realm, the horse’s voice is a whisper lost in the storm. Its pain remains unseen, its emotions unheeded, and its soul misunderstood. Some horses, with noble hearts and boundless tolerance, endure the harshness of this road until their bodies break, worn down by the relentless grind of a world that fails to listen. Others, fiery and defiant, rebel against the injustice of being silenced, only to be met with harsher hands, their cries punished rather than answered.

And so, the ego-driven whirlpool pulls many deeper into its grasp, spinning them away from the sacred dream that once burned brightly in their hearts. The horse, no longer a partner in a shared journey, is reduced to a tool, an object to be used, traded, and discarded—as easily replaced as a worn pair of boots. The bond, once so vividly imagined, dissolves into shadows, lost amidst the glittering mirage of fleeting triumphs.

Even for the pleasure rider, the call of ego often whispers too loudly. Trail rides become stages for social pretense, a dance not of unity with the horse but of appearances among peers. Beneath the surface, the bond between horse and rider weakens, obscured by human vanity.

The horse, once a beacon of hope and trust, begins to dim. Its eyes, once alight with the spark of life and the promise of connection, grow dull. Its spirit—so vibrant, so willing—is eroded by the weight of neglect and indifference. The silent poetry of its soul, the quiet longing to be understood, fades into an aching void.

Each moment of dismissal, each day spent unseen, chips away at the horse’s essence. Its grace becomes a memory; its song is silenced. What was once a partner in a sacred dance becomes a shadow of itself, forgotten and unseen, a casualty of a world too hurried to pause and listen. And in the fading light of its soul, there echoes a lament, a mournful whisper: not of rage, but of sorrow, for a bond unfulfilled and a dream abandoned to the clamor of human ambition.

Unfortunately, this is a story told again and again until the story itself is forgotten. Having spent many years in large equestrian centers among trainers and competitions, I have borne witness to the neglect, the abuse, and the discarding of horses far too often. It was this harsh reality that turned me away from the competitive road. In my own journey, I unknowingly entertained trainers who promised progress, believing they would deepen the bond with my horses. Yet, the clear sign of disstress from my companions revealed the truth: these methods were not in alignment with our dream.

Amidst this disheartening world, I am grateful to have found a compassionate trainer for a brief time who held a deep regard for my horses. But for each such soul, I saw many others swept up in a whirlwind of manipulation and control—trainers who dominated not only the horse but the rider, and sometimes the owner as well. I witnessed cases where owners were forbidden to ride their own horses, the trainers usurping their place to pursue their own ambitions. It was a mockery of the sacred bond, an act of ego overshadowing love.

Even among pleasure riders, neglect and abuse were rampant. Once the novelty wore off, many leased their horses to others, unaware of the harm being inflicted. I remember one horse in particular—a proud, noble soul—leased to someone who ignored his pain. He endured a broken back and nerve damage from relentless jumping, his agony dismissed. When I spoke out on his behalf by calling his owner, informing him of his seizure, shaking from the pain that was so immense he could no longer stand, he easily dismissed him, and paid the barn manager to transport him to the vet to be put down. The day he was sent to the veterinarian alone to be euthanized remains etched in my memory. I was not about to let him die alone, and so I went.  Standing in the trailer, he shuddered in pain, uncontrollably, I tried my best to fight back my immense sadness and anger for the disregard that was given him.  I held him trying to ease his pain, struggling to not show my own emotions of anger towards his person and those at the center.  We rode together in the back of the trailer to the vet, while I tried sending him healing despite the overwhelming emotions I felt. And as I held his head in my lap, caressing him gently, and pouring love and gratitude for him, the vet administered the fatal shot.  But even in his final moments, he would not pass so easy as he seemed adamant in his gaze at me that he wanted me to convey a message to his person.  He looked at me and radiated such love for his owner who had abandoned him—a love unbroken even by neglect. In his eyes, I saw a message, a final plea: to convey his love to this person who had forgotten him. As he took his last breath, the weight of his forgiveness and devotion broke my heart and I sat there in awe of the greatness of this being; a love that transcended even forgiveness.  For a moment, he even held me in such presence of love, that I too could not feel sadness nor anger.  I felt only a supreme love that I knew I was in the presence of a great soul. I knew in that moment humanity had so much to learn from horses.

This story is not shared to horrify, but to reveal the truth—a truth often hidden behind the glamor of the horse world. Of over a hundred horses at that equestrian center, no one noticed his plight. No one mourned his passing. There were countless others like him, their incredible souls unseen, their silent cries unheard. And still, the horse waits for us to see them for who they truly are.  It is his story I tell in my way to honor him and not make his death, his life, his love, his immense Divine essence go unseen; unheard. May we honor him by the way we treat animals from now and moving forward and remember him always as a beacon of light to shine the truth about the Divine beings of horses and all animals.

It is time we change this story. Horses are not tools, trophies, or mere possessions. They are sentient beings—partners, teachers, and mirrors to our souls. Let us honor them, listen to them, and cherish the sacred bond they offer. The world will only transform when we choose to see them not as objects of use but as the extraordinary, soulful beings they are.  This story is dedicated to you, “M”, who showed us how to love, freely, unconditionally, and eternally.  

This story is not an isolated one.  It is a common tale, told time and again: 80 percent of those who acquire horses sell them within the first year, and of the few who remain, 80 percent of them are sold within five years. For many, horses are but fleeting symbols of glamour—a lifestyle to be adorned, not a relationship to be cherished. Their "why" is hollow, their hearts unprepared for the devotion that horses demand and deserve.

Yet, those who tread this shallow path miss the great mystery that horses carry in their stride. They fail to see the veil that horses lift, the one that separates the seen from the unseen. For the unbridled horse is not merely a companion of flesh and bone; it is a guide to the soul, a bridge to realms beyond the ordinary. Horses offer us companionship that is silent but profound, guidance that is subtle but transformative. They show us how to move through the labyrinth of life with grace, to transcend the smallness of ego and rediscover the vastness of the Self, and to help us to "Know Thyself"

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To have a horse is not to enslave oneself to the hollow demands of a superficial world, nor to enslave the horse to human whims. It is to awaken to a choice—a sacred choice. If we truly love our horses, this choice becomes clear. It is the way of the horse: the path of Chevalia.

Here, on this quieter path, there are no ribbons to win, no gold to grasp, no applause to gather. There is only the rhythm of hoofbeats on the earth, the gentle exchange of breath, and the sacred dance of two souls moving as one. This is the road less traveled, but it is the road that leads home—to the heart, to the Tao, to Chevalia.

"Two roads diverged in a wood, and I—I took the one less traveled by, and that has made all the difference."

And so, the horse stands waiting at the crossroads, a patient guide and wise companion. The choice is ours to make. Will we listen to the call of Chevalia, or will we be lost in the clamor of a world that does not see?

Chevalia: The Gateway to Mystery

Chevalia is a word born of love, a name we have woven to describe the sacred way of the horse. It is not merely a path, but a journey into the soul, a mirror to the eternal flow of life itself. We have come to understand that Chevalia is synonymous with the Way of the Tao, the Way of Nature—a profound harmony that pulses through all living things, a rhythm older than the stars and deeper than the seas. Lao Tzu, the ancient sage of the Tao, wrote in the first verse of the Tao Te Ching:

"The Tao that can be told is not the eternal Tao. The name that can be named is not the eternal name. The nameless is the beginning of heaven and earth... Ever desireless, one can see the mystery... This appears as darkness... darkness within darkness. The gate to all mystery."

So, too, is the horse. The horse is the gatekeeper, standing at the threshold of the eternal mystery, inviting us to step beyond the known and into the vastness of the unseen. To ride with the horse is to ride toward the darkened veil that separates the ego from the infinite. It is to move through the shadows of illusion and emerge into the light of truth. The horse, unburdened by human ego, walks freely within this mystery, whispering to those who will listen, guiding those who will follow.

When we answer the call of Chevalia, we begin to see with new eyes, unclouded by desire or fear. The horse, in its silence, teaches us that the darkness is not to be feared but embraced, for within it lies the secret of our true essence. It reveals that we are not separate, not bound by the confines of identity or the illusions of the self. We are part of the One, the great tapestry of Universal consciousness that threads through all beings and all things.

This realization is a homecoming. It is the sacred truth that we are whole, infinite, and eternal. To walk the way of the horse is to return to the flow of the Tao, to step into the eternal now where all is interconnected. It is to dissolve the barriers of ego and find oneself embraced by the vast, unnameable presence of life itself. Through the horse, we glimpse what Lao Tzu called “the gate to all mystery.” The horse is the guardian of this gate, waiting not to be mastered but to be understood. In their eyes, we see reflections of the stars; in their breath, we hear the echo of the wind across ancient lands. They carry us through the darkness, not as conquerors but as seekers, showing us that the path to truth is not one of force but of surrender.

Chevalia whispers to us in the rhythm of hooves on soft earth, in the flicker of a tail, in the steady, grounding breath of the horse. It calls us to remember, to let go, to return to what we have always been but forgotten: infinite, sacred, and one with the eternal flow of life.

And so, as you stand before the gate, ask yourself: Will you step into the mystery? Will you follow the horse into the darkness within darkness, where the truth of the Universe resides?

The horse is waiting. The gate is open. The choice is yours.

"Ever desireless, one can see the mystery..."

The Two Paths: Ego and Divinity in the Way of the Horse

As we step into the sacred journey of Chevalia—the way of the horse, the way of the Tao—we are met with a choice, a fork in the road that mirrors the duality within ourselves. Before us lie two paths: one, forged by the clamor of the patriarchal world, seeks to dominate and control, enslaving both the horse and the human spirit to the relentless demands of the ego. The other, softer yet no less powerful, invites us into a realm of divine horsemanship, where harmony whispers through every breath, and the mysteries of the unseen unfold with each step.

Each path beckons, yet their destinations could not be more distinct. The first leads to the unraveling of the soul, binding us to the false idols of achievement and external validation. The second guides us toward liberation, opening the gate to Chevalia—a place where the horse becomes not a tool but a teacher, a guide into the infinite depths of our true essence.

"The Tao is like an empty vessel: it is used but never filled.”  It is the eternal void, filled with infinite possibilities. (Tao Te Ching, Chapter 4)

The Path of Ego: Enslavement to the False Self

The patriarchal world of horsemanship is steeped in the language of power, control, and hierarchy. It demands compliance, forcing the horse into submission and the human into a ceaseless pursuit of accolades. The ego whispers promises of greatness, yet its price is steep. Both horse and human become bound—enslaved to illusions that strip away their freedom and vitality.

On this path, the horse’s voice is silenced, its spirit bent beneath the weight of harsh methods and rigid expectations. The human, too, suffers, though they may not see it. They are consumed by the need to prove themselves, to conquer, to be seen as worthy in the eyes of others. Yet, in this pursuit, they lose sight of the deeper truth: that the horse was never theirs to dominate, and the soul was never theirs to enslave.

"He who seeks power over others loses the way of the Tao. The master seeks no power, and so remains in harmony." (Tao Te Ching, Chapter 39)

The path of ego is a labyrinth of destruction. It drains the body, weakens the spirit, and blinds the heart to the beauty of connection. The horse, once a mirror of the divine, becomes a casualty of human ambition. And the human, chasing shadows of glory, drifts ever further from the light of their true self.

The Path of Divinity: Liberation Through Harmony

The second path is quieter, almost hidden, yet it holds the keys to the mysteries of Chevalia. This is the path of divine horsemanship, where the horse is honored as a partner, a guide, and a sacred reflection of the eternal. Here, there is no force, no dominance, no hunger for control. There is only trust, mutual respect, and a willingness to let go of the ego’s grasp.

On this path, the horse becomes a portal to the infinite, leading us through the veil of illusion and into the heart of the Tao. As we let go of the need to conquer, we discover the profound power of surrender. We learn that true strength lies not in mastery over another but in mastery of oneself.

"The wise go about without doing, teaching without speaking. The ten thousand things rise and fall, yet she lets them come and go." (Tao Te Ching, Chapter 2)

Through the horse, we come to understand the interconnectedness of all things. We see that we are not separate, not bound by the ego’s lies, but part of a greater whole. In this realization, the barriers between human and horse dissolve, and we step into a dance of unity and flow.

Ego vs. Divinity: The Transformative Choice

These two paths—one of ego and enslavement, the other of harmony and liberation—stand as reflections of the choices we make in all aspects of life. The horse, as our guide, offers us the opportunity to choose wisely. Will we cling to the illusions of control, or will we embrace the mysteries of Chevalia? To walk the path of divine horsemanship is to step into the unknown; to ride through the darkness and emerge into the light of truth. It is to transcend the false self and return to the infinite, sacred essence of who we are.

"Darkness within darkness. The gateway to all understanding." (Tao Te Ching, Chapter 1)

The Call of Chevalia

The horse waits for us at the crossroads, their steady gaze a silent invitation. They do not ask for our mastery or our perfection. They ask only for our authenticity, our humility, and our willingness to listen. Let us take their lead, following their hoofprints into the depths of Chevalia. There, in the quiet rhythm of their steps, we will find the mysteries of the universe unfolding. There, we will discover not only the way of the horse but the way of the Tao, the way of our own sacred, eternal truth.

"When you let go of what you are, you become what you might be." (Tao Te Ching, Chapter 48)

Transcending Horsemanship

The Two Paths of Horsemanship: Ego vs. Divinity; Separation vs. Unity

The path of the ego, reflects an outdated paradigm of dominance, control, and ego. This approach, driven by a desire for external validation, often leaves deep scars—physical, emotional, and spiritual—on both the horse and the human. The other path, divine horsemanship, aligns with the principles of the Tao, embracing harmony, trust, and respect. This path nurtures growth, healing, and connection for both beings, creating a partnership that flourishes on every level.

Horses, as sentient mirrors of our inner world, challenge us to consider which path we will take. Will we impose control at the expense of their well-being, or will we allow them to guide us toward a deeper understanding of ourselves and the natural world?

"When you impose your will upon others, you create resistance. When you move with the flow of life, you create harmony." (Tao Te Ching, Chapter 64)

This chapter explores the consequences of patriarchal horsemanship and the rewards of divine horsemanship, illustrating the transformative potential of a relationship grounded in balance, humility, and partnership.

The Ego Path:  The Way of Control

The patriarchal or ego model of horsemanship arises from a mindset that views the horse as a being to be dominated and controlled. This approach prioritizes human desires over the horse’s well-being, often sacrificing trust, connection, and the horse’s physical, emotional, and spiritual health for the sake of performance or status.

Core Characteristics of Patriarchal Horsemanship

1. Dominance Over Partnership: The horse is treated as a tool for human goals, with little regard for their individuality or emotional state.

2. Ego-Driven Goals: Success is measured by external achievements—ribbons, accolades, or the ability to make the horse “perform” on command.

3. Force and Compliance: Training methods often rely on coercion, using harsh tools or techniques to suppress natural behaviors.

4. Separation from Nature: The horse’s instincts and needs are ignored, creating disconnection and stress.

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"He who uses force will find that force recoils upon him. The master acts without force, and thus remains in harmony." (Tao Te Ching, Chapter 30)

Consequences of Patriarchal Horsemanship

The patriarchal approach leaves a trail of damage—seen and unseen—that affects the horse on every level, not to mention can have grave similar consequences to the person, including death.

1. Physical Damage

• Overwork and Injury: Horses pushed beyond their limits often suffer chronic pain, lameness, or physical injuries caused by harsh training methods or inappropriate tack.

• Stress-Related Illness: The constant pressure to perform can weaken the immune system, leading to ulcers, colic, and other stress-induced conditions.

2. Emotional Damage

• Fear and Anxiety: Horses subjected to forceful methods develop a heightened state of vigilance, always anticipating punishment.

• Emotional Shutdown: Some horses, unable to cope, retreat into a state of learned helplessness, where they comply without spirit or engagement.

3. Spiritual Damage

• Loss of Trust: Horses naturally seek connection and safety. When these needs are ignored, they lose trust not only in humans but also in their own instincts.

• Suppression of Spirit: The vibrant, expressive nature of the horse is dulled, leaving a being that exists only to comply, not to thrive.

  
  

"When a being is forced to go against their nature, they suffer. To honor their nature is to honor the Tao." (Tao Te Ching, Chapter 8)

Divine Horsemanship: The Way of Harmony

Divine horsemanship reflects the principles of the Tao, fostering a relationship of mutual respect and trust. This approach prioritizes the well-being of the horse on all levels, creating a partnership that nurtures physical health, emotional security, and spiritual connection.

Core Principles of Divine Horsemanship

1. Partnership Over Dominance: The horse’s individuality and emotions are honored, creating a foundation of trust and respect.

2. Heart-Centered Connection: Success is measured by the depth of the relationship, not by external validation.

3. Empathy and Patience: Training methods prioritize kindness and clear communication, allowing the horse to thrive.

4. Alignment with Nature: The horse’s natural rhythms and instincts are embraced, creating harmony and flow.

   
   

"The master does not seek to control but to guide gently, allowing each being to find their place in harmony." (Tao Te Ching, Chapter 66)

Rewards of Divine Horsemanship

When we embrace divine horsemanship, the relationship transforms into a source of mutual healing and growth, and spiritual evolution, and conscious breakthrough; a journey that is a Divine guide in navigating through life in knowing our true essence and cultivating our innate virtues naturally towards ourselves and all others.

1. Physical Rewards

• Improved Health: A stress-free environment and kind training methods promote physical well-being and longevity.

• Graceful Movement: Horses allowed to work within their natural abilities develop strength, balance, and fluidity in their movements.

2. Emotional Rewards

• Deep Trust: Horses respond to authenticity and respect, forming bonds that are unshakable and profound.

• Emotional Security: A horse that feels safe and valued is more willing to engage, learn, and connect.

3. Spiritual Rewards

• Mutual Growth: Both horse and human experience personal and spiritual development through their interactions.

• Joyful Expression: Horses allowed to thrive become vibrant, expressive beings, reflecting the natural harmony of the Tao.

• Horses reveal their mystic side, gatekeepers and guides through the mysteries of the Universe, healing, and transcendence.

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"To live in harmony with others is to live in harmony with the Tao. In this harmony, all beings flourish." (Tao Te Ching, Chapter 25)

Contrasting the Two Approaches

Aspect	Patriarchal Horsemanship	Divine Horsemanship
View of the Horse	Tool for human use	Sentient partner and teacher
Primary Goal	Control and external validation	Connection and mutual growth
Techniques	Force and coercion	Empathy and communication
Outcome for the Horse	Physical, emotional, and spiritual damage	Physical, emotional, and spiritual flourishing
Outcome for the Human	Ego-driven disconnection	Heart-centered connection Healing, Self realization and  transcendence

Choose the Way of the Tao or Divine Path

The choice between ego and divine horsemanship is not merely a question of training methods—it is a reflection of our values and priorities. To walk the path of divine horsemanship is to honor the horse as a partner, to release the ego, and to embrace humility, authenticity, and connection.

Daily Devotion to Divine Horsemanship

1. Cultivate Presence: Ground yourself in the moment, releasing distractions and ego-driven goals. Step into the stillness, the breath; surrender to the Divine.

2. Listen Deeply: Pay attention to the horse’s body language, energy, and needs.

3. Prioritize the Relationship: Shift your focus from achievement to connection, finding joy in each moment shared.

4. Celebrate Harmony: Recognize that success lies not in control but in the mutual growth and trust that arise from partnership.

   
   

"The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. Take each step with humility, and you walk the path of the Tao." (Tao Te Ching, Chapter 64)

Divine Horsemanship:  A Sacred Partnership

The path of divine horsemanship reflects the Taoist way of balance and harmony. By choosing partnership over dominance and connection over ego, we create a relationship that rewards both horse and human on every level—physical, emotional, and spiritual. This is the way of the horse, the way of the Tao—a journey not of control but of profound mutual growth and infinite possibility. Let us walk this path with grace, humility, and love, honoring the sacred bond that unites us with these magnificent beings.

"In harmony, there is peace. In peace, there is joy. In joy, there is the Tao." (Tao Te Ching, Chapter 13)

Beyond the comparison of these contrasting paths, there lies a deeper essence of the horse if we choose the Divine path, the way of the Tao, the way of Nature, the way of the Horse; Chevalia.  For beyond just the external and emotional evidence lies a unspoken layer, or realm of vast mysteries that the horse can impart when given the love and respect by its person.  This goes beyond horsemanship and into a realm of the unseen. 

Chevalia: The Horse as a Guide to the Mystic Path

Beyond the comparison of contrasting paths—the patriarchal and the divine—lies an essence of the horse that transcends understanding. To walk the divine path, the way of the Tao, the way of Nature, the way of the Horse—Chevalia—is to step into a realm where the unspoken becomes known, where mysteries are not solved but revealed. This path is not simply about horsemanship or forging a relationship with a horse; it is about unlocking the doorway to the unseen, the sacred, and the infinite. 

The horse, when treated with the love and reverence it deserves, becomes more than a partner. It becomes a guide, a guardian, and a bridge to the divine. Divine horsemanship is not merely about connection—it is about transformation. When the horse invites us into its world and we accept, it reveals to us not just itself but the depths of our own essence, our purpose, and our unity with the eternal.

Why the Horse? A Sacred Connection

Of all the beings in nature, why the horse? What sets this being apart as a guide to transformation and transcendence?

All of nature holds the sacred key, a deep well of wisdom and healing for those who are willing to listen. Yet the horse stands uniquely poised between the human and the divine. Throughout the ages, the horse has been humanity’s companion—not just in labor and war but in spirit and story. The horse’s presence in myth, ritual, and dream speaks to its role as an ancient spirit, a being whose connection to the unseen is deeply intertwined with our own.

The Gift of Presence and Vulnerability

The horse’s immense size, power, and spirit strip away our pretenses and demand our presence. To stand before a horse is to be humbled, to feel both small and significant in the same breath. Unlike smaller animals, whose comfort is rooted in familiarity, the horse’s grandeur calls us into vulnerability. This vulnerability is not a weakness but a gateway to transformation. The horse does not allow us to hide. It sees through the masks of ego, reflecting back the truth of who we are. Its mirror neurons align with our own, presenting us with the darkness we carry—the fears, the false beliefs, the wounds buried deep within. Yet the horse does not merely reveal; it offers a path forward. In their quiet strength, they guide us into the shadows of the soul, carrying us through the darkness and into the light of truth.

"Darkness within darkness. The gateway to all understanding." (Tao Te Ching, Chapter 1)

The Horse as Mirror and Carrier

The horse’s unique gift lies in its dual role: it is both a mirror and a carrier.

• As a Mirror:The horse reflects our inner world with uncompromising honesty. Its sensitivity to energy and emotion lays bare what we might hide from ourselves—anger, fear, insecurity, or joy. In their presence, we cannot pretend; the horse demands authenticity. This reflection allows us to see the false narratives that bind us and begin the work of clearing them.

• As a Carrier:The horse does not leave us in the darkness it reveals. With their strength and grace, they carry us forward, beyond the illusions of the self and into the light of our true essence. The horse holds us as we navigate the shadows, offering a steady presence that allows us to transcend what no longer serves. In this way, the horse becomes a sacred vessel, both revealing our divinity and guiding us toward it.

An Ancient Spirit in a Modern World

The transformative power of the horse is no modern discovery. Ancient cultures understood the sacred role of the horse and revered it accordingly. From the Celtic goddess Epona, protector of horses and travelers, to the divine steeds of Hindu mythology, the horse has long been seen as a bridge between the physical and spiritual realms.

• In shamanic traditions, the horse was a means of traversing worlds, carrying the spirit of the shaman into realms unseen.

• In Greek mythology, the horse was a symbol of both earthly power and divine grace, a companion to gods and heroes alike.

• In nomadic cultures, the horse was life itself, its spirit intertwined with the survival and identity of its people.

This reverence was born of recognition. The ancients saw what we are only beginning to rediscover: that the horse holds within its being the capacity to guide us into the mysteries of existence, to connect us with the eternal flow of life.

Chevalia: A Path to Transcendence

To walk the way of the horse is to walk a path of transformation and transcendence. It is to align with the Tao, the great flow of nature, and to allow the horse to lead us beyond the illusions of the self. In their unbridled presence, we remember what we have forgotten: that we are not separate, that we are not bound by ego, that we are infinite and sacred.

The horse, in its silence, speaks to the eternal. It reveals the dark side of the soul not to harm us but to heal, not to burden but to free. When we choose the path of Chevalia, we open ourselves to the horse’s wisdom, allowing it to carry us not just across the land but into the heart of the divine.

"When you let go of what you are, you become what you might be." (Tao Te Ching, Chapter 48)

Let us walk this path with reverence, trusting the horse as our guide. Beyond the visible lies a realm of infinite mystery, and the horse, with its ancient spirit and sacred presence, holds the key to its gate. Will you follow? The horse is waiting. The journey is yours to take.

The Horse: Eternal Guardian of the Sacred

When we enter the presence of a horse, we step into a lineage that stretches back to the dawn of humanity—a lineage of reverence, partnership, and awe. The truths we are uncovering today about horses, their ability to guide, heal, and transcend, are not new. They are as ancient as the first hoofbeats on the earth, whispered across time by sages, warriors, and dreamers who walked alongside these magnificent beings.

In every era, in every corner of the world, the horse has stood as more than an animal. They have been symbols of freedom, embodiments of power, and vessels of the divine. To those who dared to see, they were not merely creatures of utility but emissaries of the unseen, gateways to the mysteries of existence.

The Ancients’ Reverence for Horses

In the earliest myths and stories of humankind, the horse emerges as a sacred figure. The ancient Celts, whose lives were intertwined with the rhythms of the natural world, revered Epona, the goddess of horses. She was not just a protector of riders and travelers but a guide to the otherworld, where the veil between the mortal and the divine is thin. Her presence symbolized fertility, abundance, and the sacred bond between humanity and nature.

Across the vast steppes of Central Asia, the nomadic peoples lived by the grace of their horses, whose strength carried them across the endless plains. These horses were not simply tools of survival; they were bridges between worlds, their gallop likened to the thunder of the heavens. Shamans rode into the spirit realms on the backs of horses, seeking wisdom and guidance, their journeys entwined with the rhythms of their mounts.

In Greek mythology, Poseidon, god of the sea, also bore the title of "tamer of horses," signifying their wild and elemental power. The horse was not just an earthly creature but a being born of the gods, capable of carrying mortals into realms of glory and transformation. The immortal horses of Achilles, Xanthos and Balios, were said to weep for their fallen master, embodying not only divine power but also deep emotional connection.

Even the White Horse of Uffington, carved into the chalk hills of Britain, stands as an eternal reminder of humanity’s reverence for these creatures. This ancient figure, whose origins remain shrouded in mystery, is a testament to the horse’s enduring role as a symbol of life’s sacred essence.

"That which is ancient and eternal flows through all things. To honor it is to honor the Tao." (Tao Te Ching, Chapter 25)

The Timeless Truth of the Horse’s Nature

The reverence the ancients held for horses was born of lived experience. They saw, as we see today, the unique power horses hold to transform and transcend. Whether carrying a warrior into battle or a shaman into the spirit world, horses demanded presence. Their size and strength, their wild spirit tempered by their willingness to partner, forced humans to confront their own vulnerabilities.

This truth remains unchanged. Horses today, as they did then, call us into the present moment. They strip away the masks of ego, revealing the raw, unvarnished self. In their presence, we cannot hide our fears or our insecurities; we must face them. And in facing them, we find the opportunity to heal.

Modern science affirms what the ancients instinctively knew. Horses, through their heightened sensitivity, respond not to our words but to the energy we bring. They feel our unspoken emotions, our unresolved pain, and reflect it back to us with uncompromising honesty. A horse that balks or resists is not defying us out of malice but mirroring the turbulence we carry within.

And when we enter their space with humility and openness, their response shifts. Their tension melts, their movements soften, and they meet us in a place of trust. This is the truth of the horse, as real today as it was in the time of the Celts, the Greeks, and the nomads of the steppe.

The Power of Vulnerability

While all animals hold a sacred essence, the horse’s unique combination of size, power, and sensitivity sets them apart. Their towering stature and raw strength awaken a sense of awe that demands humility. Unlike the loyal loving dog or a cat, whose presence may comfort us without challenging us, the horse’s grandeur forces us to reckon with our smallness.

This reckoning is not one of diminishment but of transformation. To partner with a horse, we must let go of control and embrace vulnerability. We must step into the now, where ego cannot survive and only truth remains.

Their strength becomes a paradox: it makes us vulnerable, yet it also carries us. Their power, which could easily overwhelm, instead lifts us, holding us steady as we face the storms within. In this way, the horse becomes both mirror and healer, reflecting our pain and guiding us toward wholeness.

"The master sees things as they are, without judgment or resistance. In this clarity, all things align." (Tao Te Ching, Chapter 59)

How the Horse Heals and Transcends

The horse’s ability to heal and transcend lies in their connection to the present moment. They live free of ego, unburdened by the past or the future. This pure presence creates a space where we, too, can step out of the illusions of time and into the eternal now.

In their presence, our subconscious beliefs rise to the surface. The fear we have buried, the anger we deny, the insecurities we mask—all are brought into the light. The horse does not judge these emotions; they simply reflect them, holding a mirror to our inner world. And in that reflection, healing begins. By acknowledging what the horse reveals, we begin to release the false narratives we carry. We let go of the ego’s grasp and open ourselves to the truth of who we are: infinite, sacred, and whole.

The horse guides us not by force but by example. Their movements teach us to flow, their stillness shows us the power of presence, and their trust invites us to trust ourselves. Through them, we learn the way of the Tao: to move with life rather than against it, to embrace what is rather than resist it.

The Eternal Call

From the ancient past to the present day, the horse stands as a bridge between worlds. They carry us not only across landscapes but also across the boundaries of the self, guiding us into the vastness of the sacred. Their call echoes through time, whispering to those who will listen:Will you step into the mystery? Will you let the horse guide you beyond the illusions of the ego and into the truth of your infinite self? The ancients heard this call and honored it. Today, we are invited to do the same. The horse waits, as they have always waited, their presence a silent testament to the eternal.

The Sacred Chorus: Reverence for All Beings

While this book places emphasis on horses, we recognize and revere the sacredness of all animals and nature as messengers of the Divine.  All animals hold within them the capacity to mirror the human soul, to guide us to transcendence, and to illuminate the path back to the sacred. Each creature, from the ant to the eagle, the deer to the wolf, carries its own unique wisdom, its own key to the mysteries of existence. The ancients knew this truth. To them, every animal was a deity in its own right, imbued with spiritual significance and gifted with attributes that reflected the divine.

Yet in the modern age, mankind has veiled this reverence, obscured by the ego’s illusions of separation and superiority. Wild animals, whose untamed spirits see through our facades, shy away from those who embody ego. Their wisdom is offered only to those who approach with humility and respect. Domestic animals, such as dogs and cats, while powerful in their own capacity to heal and connect, do not evoke the vulnerability required for profound transformation. Their size and familiarity comfort us but do not challenge us. Other animals—cows, pigs, goats, chickens—are seen through the lens of utility, dismissed as insignificant or lesser beings. Their sovereignty is ignored, their spirits disregarded. Yet these beings, too, carry the spark of the divine. Their presence, like that of the horse, offers profound gifts to those who choose to see.

"The Tao nourishes all things, and all things find their place within it. No creature is greater or lesser; all are held in the balance of the eternal." (Tao Te Ching, Chapter 34)

The Ancient Reverence for All Life

Across cultures and time, humanity once held sacred the beings with whom we share this earth. Animals were not merely companions or tools but messengers of the divine, carriers of wisdom, and guides on the mystic path.

• The Celts saw animals as totems, each embodying qualities to guide the soul. The stag symbolized independence and purity of spirit, while the raven carried the mystery of transformation and prophecy. The salmon, ever swimming against the current, embodied wisdom and perseverance.

• The Egyptians, steeped in symbolism, revered animals as sacred avatars of the gods. The cat, sleek and mysterious, was associated with Bastet, the goddess of protection and grace. The hawk, soaring above, was the embodiment of Horus, the guardian of the heavens.

• The Indigenous Peoples of the Americas hold profound reverence for all beings, each creature a totem with lessons to impart. The bear teaches introspection, the wolf loyalty and intuition, the butterfly transformation, and the turtle the grounding wisdom of patience and perseverance.

• In Hinduism, animals are divine incarnations. Hanuman, the monkey god, symbolizes devotion and strength. The sacred cow represents abundance and nourishment, a living symbol of life’s sustenance and grace.

• The Aboriginal Australians honor every creature as part of the Dreamtime, the eternal story of creation where all beings are interconnected threads of the same sacred fabric.

Each of these traditions reminds us that animals are divine expressions of the Tao, each carrying its unique role, sacred contribution, guardian and guide in the great symphony of life.

"He who knows the nature of things sees no separation. In the smallest ant, in the greatest whale, the Tao flows equally." (Tao Te Ching, Chapter 39)

The Barrier of Mankind’s Ego

While all beings possess the capacity to guide and transcend, it is humanity’s arrogance and blindness that often blocks this sacred connection. To truly receive the gifts of animals, one must relinquish the ego and approach with reverence, recognizing their sovereignty and divinity.

Domestic animals—dogs, cats, and birds—live among us, their spirits often dulled by the constraints of our constructed world. Yet, even within these confines, they offer quiet lessons in loyalty, presence, and unconditional love. Their gifts, though profound, often go unnoticed, as familiarity breeds complacency.

The larger beings—cows, pigs, goats, chickens—carry the wisdom of humility and service, yet they are viewed through the cold lens of utility. Their voices are ignored, their spirits dismissed. These creatures, too, hold the potential for transformation, but their gifts are overlooked by a society that sees them as commodities rather than companions.

The horse, by virtue of its size, strength, and spirit, calls us into a deeper vulnerability. It demands humility in a way few other animals can, stripping away the ego and forcing us into the present moment. This unique dynamic creates a profound opportunity for transformation, yet it is not exclusive to the horse. The capacity for transcendence lies within all beings, if only we are willing to see it.

The Universal Symphony of Life

Beyond animals, the sacred extends to all life—trees that whisper ancient truths in the wind, rivers that carve paths through stone, and insects that weave the intricate web of ecosystems. The snake, shedding its skin, reminds us of the power of transformation. The tiger, with its solitary grace, teaches the balance of strength and stillness. The whale, singing in the depths, echoes the timeless call of the universe itself.

Every being, every living thing, is a manifestation of the Tao. Each carries a piece of the puzzle, a key to understanding the vast and infinite mystery of life.

"The great Tao flows everywhere. All things are born of it, and it claims nothing. It nourishes all things and does not demand to be loved." (Tao Te Ching, Chapter 34)

Reclaiming Reverence

As we walk the path of Chevalia, we honor not only the horse but the sacredness of all life. Though this book focuses on the horse’s unique gifts, it does so with the understanding that the horse is one voice in a greater choir—a choir that sings of unity, connection, and the eternal flow of the Tao. The ancients saw what we often forget: that no creature is insignificant, no life lesser than another. In the tree, the fish, the snake, and the ant, as in the horse, the divine whispers to us. Will we listen?

"When you honor the small as much as the great, the many as much as the few, you walk the path of the Tao." (Tao Te Ching, Chapter 63)

Let us walk with reverence, knowing that every step we take is part of a greater journey, and every being we encounter is a guide along the way.

The Tao: The Eternal Guide

The Tao, the great force that flows through all of nature, is the unseen thread that weaves together the fabric of existence. It moves silently through the rivers, whispers in the wind, and pulses in the heart of every living thing. It is the essence of the infinite, the quiet current beneath the chaos, waiting for us to align with its flow. When we step into harmony with the Tao, it opens the door to the unseen. The veil of illusion lifts, and the mysteries hidden in the folds of existence reveal themselves. The Tao speaks without words, showing us what lies beyond our limited sight—truths as ancient as the stars and as immediate as the breath we draw.

"The Tao is the great mother: empty yet inexhaustible, it gives birth to infinite worlds." (Tao Te Ching, Chapter 6)

The Tao is the great womb of all creation, the silent source that births and sustains worlds without measure. It is not bound by form, yet it fills all forms; it is not seen, yet it reveals itself in the rhythm of tides, the cycles of the moon, and the whisper of the wind. To those who walk in alignment with its way, the Tao is not only a giver of life but a tender guardian, an unfailing guide, and an inexhaustible well of wisdom.

In humanity's quest for dominance, there is often a blindness to the sacred essence of nature. The trees that breathe for us, the rivers that quench our thirst, and the soil that nourishes our bodies—these are not mere resources. They are expressions of the Tao’s love, silent givers that sustain life without expectation or demand. Yet, when desecrated, they can unleash forces of unimaginable power, not out of vengeance but as a natural rebalancing of harmony.

For those who live in alignment with the Tao, this sacred force reveals itself not through intellect but through a deep inner knowing—a wisdom felt in the solar plexus, the heart, and the quiet depths of the soul. It is a whisper that guides, a pull that redirects, and a stillness that warns of unseen perils. Those who honor this knowing move with the Tao as a fish swims in water, untouched by the turmoil of storms above.

The realms beyond the physical are as real as the earth beneath our feet. The Tao weaves through these dimensions as seamlessly as it flows through the rivers and the veins of a leaf. To walk in harmony with the Tao is to be nourished not only in the body but in spirit, to find shelter not only in the physical world but in the unseen realms where peace and wisdom dwell. Here, the Tao protects without judgment and leads without force, offering its infinite gifts to those who surrender to its flow.

In surrendering, one learns that the Tao does not impose; it invites. It calls us back to the natural state of unity, where all things are interconnected and every need is met effortlessly. The sparrow does not worry for its shelter, nor does the deer fret for its sustenance. So, too, are we cared for when we trust in the Tao. This is not blind faith but a lived experience, a communion with the very essence of life that transcends fear, worry, and striving.

To know the Tao is to know that all realms—seen and unseen—are held within its embrace. Those who live in this alignment walk lightly yet firmly, with hearts open and minds quiet. They are both rooted and free, sustained and protected by the infinite grace of the great mother that is the Tao.

The Protective Embrace of the Tao

In the Tao’s embrace, we are cradled by the infinite. It is the wind that whispers caution before a storm, the stillness that holds us steady when the world trembles. When we trust in its guidance, it becomes our guardian—not with force or imposition, but with the gentle precision of a spider weaving its web. The Tao moves us out of harm’s way as effortlessly as a leaf carried downstream, its protection invisible but undeniable.

"He who flows as life flows knows no danger. He who stands still as the mountain feels no fear." 

(Tao Te Ching, Chapter 16)

The Guiding Light of the Tao

The Tao is more than a force; it is a guide, a path, and the destination itself. It leads us through the labyrinth of life, not with maps or commands, but with an ever-present invitation to trust and follow. It does not rush us but flows with infinite patience, waiting for the moment when we are ready to step into its current.

To align with the Tao is to allow it to lead us home—home to the self, to the eternal, to the wholeness that lies beyond the reach of the ego. It shows us the way not through resistance but through surrender, not through striving but through stillness. In its flow, we find the truth of who we are: infinite, sacred, and one with all.

"The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. That step, taken in harmony with the Tao, carries us beyond all boundaries." (Tao Te Ching, Chapter 64)

The Tao’s Call to Transcendence

The Tao does not impose, nor does it demand. It simply flows, constant and eternal, offering us the choice to align or resist. To follow the Tao is to transcend the illusions of the self, to move beyond the grasp of fear, doubt, and separation. It leads us to a place where the seen and unseen merge, where we are no longer bound by the smallness of the ego but embraced by the vastness of the whole.

In the Tao, there is no end, no beginning, only the eternal unfolding of life itself. To walk its path is to become part of that unfolding, to be carried not by effort but by grace, not by force but by trust. It leads us, always, to where we are meant to be—home, in the infinite presence of the sacred.

"The Tao is infinite, eternal. Why is it eternal? It does not live for itself; thus it is always present." 

(Tao Te Ching, Chapter 7)

In its flow, we are seen. In its protection, we are safe. And in its guidance, we are transformed. The Tao is not a force outside of us, but the very essence within us, calling us to remember, to return, to be whole once more.

The Tao reveals itself through the horse, our Divine guide.