I have been spending a lot of time and funds in my quest to become more proficient in my horsemanship. I have been studying some very intricate work. For some reason, along the line I had lost confidence in aspects of my riding, particularly loping (cantering) with a long rein. Recently I had been pushing myself mercilessly to improve. It showed and I was both tired and tense.

Franklin not only arranged details of my holiday so that I could benefit from wonderful surroundings and hospitality but he carefully planned my week of riding and observing him working other horses to ensure that I had all the positive support, coaching and fun that I could benefit from. Thinking about what I benefited from the most on my adventure it was the space and opportunities he gave me to work things out myself and the positive encouragement I received. Those comments of encouragement are what I returned home with and already my riding is more relaxed and in general improving.

Franklin is a really special, loving and generous man! His heart is huge and he really cares about horses and people. Spending time with him in his own neck of the woods enabled me to see many different horses that he had worked with. All of them had trust in him and looked happy and secure and understood what their jobs were. I had been given a super opportunity to expand my understanding of horses and their ability to understand different blends of horsemanship.

Franklin’s sureness and clear intent obviously helps horses through their own learning processes.

Thank you so much, Franklin! You are a joy. Hopefully we will get you up here to run a clinic at Saughs Farm in Cumbria

In Love and Gratitude,

I was inspired to learn more about the training methods that could achieve such heights and knew that, when I did return to being with horses, it would have to be through a more "untraditional" or "natural" path, like that which I'd seen on stage during the Cavalia show.

Like most people looking for information on something they know little about, I started with the Internet, eventually finding my way to Franklin Levinson's web page. Right away I could tell that the way things on his web page were phrased made me feel good about it. I read his articles and interviews and was impressed by the testimonials of students before me. I called him up and was even more impressed by his kindness and forthright personality over the phone. In a matter of days I decided to drive out to Snowmass, Colorado from my home in Maryland and spend a few weeks with this "horse whisperer."

Immediately upon reaching Snowmass, I knew I'd made the right decision. The beauty of Colorado in the fall is beyond description. And after spending a few days with Franklin Levinson, and experiencing the way he interacted with horses, I knew I'd made a choice that would change my life forever.

The work Franklin does with horses, and the way he lives his day-to-day life, are both based on a philosophy rooted in compassion, understanding, determination and patience. Though Franklin chooses not to identify himself as a "horse whisperer," his understanding of horse psychology and herd behavior makes his training techniques appear magical.

Franklin taught me that horses are "genuine." He showed me that, with horses, what you see is what you get (unlike humans, who can have ulterior motives and are adept at concealing emotions.) Franklin demonstrated to me on a daily basis that successfully working with horses requires skill, perception and a true heart. Because Franklin possesses these qualities in abundance, I began to see how much his success in communicating with horses was grounded in the kind of person he is.

I remember being immediately struck by Franklin's openness and honesty. Here was someone who wasn't concealing anything. Like a horse, Franklin had everything out in the open. Through being with Franklin it was immediately apparent that what he taught about working with horses, that they can "make you a better person," was true. The kindness, grace and skill that Franklin possesses when working with horses, he also manifests in his life.

I worked with Franklin almost every day for three weeks. I feel I went from being someone who knew virtually nothing about horses to someone who now has a passion for working with horses. My work with Franklin gave me the foundation to understand what an appropriate interaction with a horse looks like--and the heights you can reach when creating a healthy relationship with your horse. I saw what it meant to be skillful and compassionate with your horse, to read what the horse is telling you and how to be aware of the messages you're sending to the horse with body language and energy.

Franklin gave me the gifts of knowledge and understanding, as well as experience and guidance. Not only was Franklin a wonderful teacher, but also he became a mentor to me in both my journey with horses and my journey through life.

To anyone who seeks a more satisfying experience with horses, who wishes to have the highest kind of human-horse interaction, I would recommend working with Franklin Levinson. Whether you're an experienced horse person, or a beginner like me, the lessons are the same. For me, it was working towards a new kind of harmony with horses and through that work, with myself.

I entered the paddock and walked to an area far from where they were standing. I stood in a non-threatening but aware stance and just breathed with them for a little bit. They of course started to approach right away; the two I have challenges with leading the way...each of them getting a little pushier and faster as they approached, the other two horses following along more slowly and gently. (As you taught me) I directed my energy more in a more focused way and with my intention and body language first (squared shoulders, eye contact) I asked them to stop. They did! (That wouldn't have always been the case.) I did the boundary exercise that you worked on with me, Shiloh, Honey and Sunbeam. I was great! They listened. They were happy to respond. I played hook ups with each one, one at a time while the others were free to do as they wanted as long as they didn't enter my space too closely.

The coolest thing with this experience was that Aina (my most challenging horse) would usually have to be the star and wouldn't allow for the other horses to have a turn took his turn and seemed content to let the others have their turn without bullying. The other amazing thing was that Hoku (who is also challenging for me, he tends to nip and generally doesn't like to cooperate) who wouldn't normally even be interested in participating kept asking for more. So, while the other horses just did their own thing Hoku and I practiced at liberty walking, stopping, backing up, etc. together. I realize this is all really elementary...I find it also to be SO incredibly important to the relationship/connection piece. And the more I observe, the more I realize that it's a piece that somehow seems entirely skipped a whole lot of the time.

I know I've told you this countless times now; I have to say it again. I APPRECIATE YOU!!!!! Yesterday I had another experience that confimed again what I already know; I am blessed to have been with the greatest teacher there is...Franklin Levinson. Seriously. One of our local ranches is hosting a couple from Missouri who teach the Parelli method. I don't personally have experience with Parelli, other than reading about it and seeing that guy at Lost Marbles Ranch who was shall we say less than impressive. But I figured, I'm here on Kauai...the options for horse related programs are incredibly limited so I decided to go and check this out. It started last night with a demonstration and potluck. And then there are workshops all day today and tomorrow that I could go and audit. Mark decided he wanted to come along and I'm SO glad he did. He's now one of your biggest fans too! (He was plenty impressed with your style and integrity before, however until last night he had nothing else to compare your 'way' to.) After the first 10 minutes he leaned over and said, Deb...now I get it completely...none of this even compares to what Franklin has naturally and energetically. I was relieved that he was seeing and feeling the same thing I was. We stayed for the two hour demonstration and felt increasingly uncomfortable with what was being shared.

I don't understand why or how this is called natural horsemanship? Natural as opposed or compared to what? I'm seriously asking that. What makes "Natural Horsemanship" natural? I don't feel there's anything natural about creating an environment where the horse is pushed and pushed into uncomfortable, compromising positions that seem to disempower his spirit from a place of fear and domination. I don't see anything natural about taking actions that are threatening and fearsome and then talking about being gentle, quiet and slow at the same time. I don't understand how it can be so obvious to me (and Mark, who'd even less experienced) that this horse was present, willing, actively trying to please (if only he could figure out what was being asked of him) was over and over again left to feel confused and threatened. AND...almost most importantly I don't understand how people can watch and think it's all OK because it "Natural Horsemanship" so somehow that makes it OK...even though when I talked to some of the other audience members about their impressions after their comments were that no, it didn't 'feel' right to them either, but sometimes that's what's necessary and these people are trained professionals, they know what they're doing. OY!!!!! No wonder the world is in the state it's in. Whew! I'm a little more emotionally enrolled in the experience than I need to be. I need to let that part go. I'm grateful for the experience because it continues to increase my clarity; I continue to know more deeply what it is that I want to practice and share with horses and the world.

Another realization just occurred to me. I would guess that ego rears it's ugly head a little too often at these clinics. I would bet that the presenter feels a certain pressure (especially if ego is present) to 'perform', to show a monumental difference in the behavior of the horse in a very short period of time and that the self inflicted pressure could work against the presenter by pushing him/her to get over amped and do things that may not be in alignment with right action in order to try to have a greater audience appeal (yuck, feels like Gladiator times to me). I would also guess that if a presenter would put all ego aside and instead appeal to truth, compassion and trust with the horse AND with the audience that monumental change would indeed occur...even if not with the outward expression of the horse's behavior in such a short time. I would imagine that the presenter could appeal to the understanding that the best way to create lasting change is by slowing things down, celebrating small successes, building trust, practicing compassion and being patient. That's the kind of audience I want to participate in...that's the kind of presenter I want to be.

For me this entire experience of the Horse/Human relationship is a miraculous metaphor...a recipe if you will for the process of re-connecting...remembering who we are and the journey of our connection on this earth. The ingredients that Horse teaches us to bring to the table are the same ingredients that have the power to heal each individual, our nation, our world. I know I'm preaching to the choir right now, so 'nuff said.

With Love and Appreciation,

I have always known my daughter Kate is special. What Mother doesn’t think that of her own? Franklin has given Kate a special gift, the gift of believing in her own ability. Franklin has opened doors for Kate and shown her how to walk through those doors. Previously she would tentatively push the door and peep through.

I cannot thank Franklin, Honey, Pete and JB enough for the gift they have given Kate. I know that at this moment in time Kate does not understand the importance of the precious skills she developed whilst working with Franklin at Starry Pines Ranch. I know one day she will look back and see this period of her life as a major turning pint in her life.

We leave Starry Pines with more than we brought, namely a circle of friends who have bestowed on us nothing but warmth and kindness. Both Kate and I take away new talents and skills, which will not only enhance our lives but that of all horses and ponies we encounter. We also take the memories of having worked with a beautiful person, Franklin. Lastly and most importantly, a herd of exceptionally tolerant, kind and willing horses. To name them again; Pete, Honey, Paint JB and Shiloh. Franklin and ‘friends’ have now equipped Kate and I with the precious tools and skills to continue our journey to ‘Way of the Horse.’

Thank you from my heart.

The possibilities of this understanding and awareness are endless. What a gift they bring. We, apparently, are conduits for them and Spirit. What a great job we have. Not only did I learn today that I can do this, that I have the potential, but also that no matter what has happened in our lives, no matter how hard it has been, we don’t have to live it every day. Everyday is new, and though we are a culmination of our experiences, they don’t rule us. Pete is a perfect example. When you find someone that understands, your whole world changes. Live in the present, because it can always change. Live life pure, with respect and goodness and it will be returned. They are a constant reminder (horses, that is).

8 June 2004

Yesterday I witnessed the unfolding blossom of self-direction, self-confidence and trust in a young colt. Good Boy was originally thrust into a relationship with the human equestrian experience with such force, impatience and ego that it not only caused physical damage, but emotional as well. Its apparent Good Boy comes from a place of goodness, wanting to please, do well and trusting, but a moderate layer of fear and mistrust now blankets this.

What I saw yesterday was a second chance for the horse. One based in trust, respect and patience. Sensing this, it didn’t take long for Good Boy to trust and believe in Franklin to protect and lead him well. With a quiet, elegant confidence, Franklin moved Good Boy through the process of introducing him to the elements of a solid human/horse relationship and all it entails. Good Boy was able to overcome his skepticism and fear of the saddle at his own pace and learn what was expected of him within this newly figured relationship. It was an extremely beautiful show of give and take between human and horse. Good Boy learned that it is ok to not only be himself, but to be the best he can be under the guidance and tutelage of Franklin. Trusting Franklin instilled confidence in the young horse and soon his fear of the unknown and distrust became moot and Franklin rode atop a proud and relaxed horse.

It was an impressive experience, one that brought tears to my eyes and joy to my heart. It was all so simple and thoughtful. Seemingly, they both walked away from the experience with a deep connection to one another, a sense of pride and accomplishment, as well as a quiet, but strong sense of joy for life and all the possibilities held within.

9 June 2004

Today I got a glimpse inside of horse. I saw its true self/spirit and I saw its psyche. I am beyond floored. I have been at pure joy and love, to a place of surprising connection, to overwhelmingly intense sadness to amazement and probably a bit of shell shock.

Both horses have been abused; the kind of abuse that continues over time. They are now in a safe place, and it is time to heal. My god what I saw was intense. It almost feels to big to write about. But, I don’t want to lose a bit of it, not for myself or out of reverence for each horse. They shared their souls today. I know how hard and scary that is, therefore I have a deeply sacred respect for what they did, the journey they are embarking on and allowing me to witness a part of it. As well, I saw yet another aspect of Franklin’s work. He is not only a teacher and leader for the horse, but a healer. His understanding, empathy and guidance today were as deeply connected to the Spirit, healing and sacred as the journey the horses are on.

I’ll begin my processing with the horses. Each one has a story, just like we do. Some have superficial scars, some hidden. Unless totally free and wild, or being with the right person, horses seem to get through life trying to figure out what the hell it is we are wanting. And, in the process, get hurt. They administer layers of protection against any further pain by bringing forth “bad behavior”. They learn to protect themselves at any and all costs and learn not to trust. Sound familiar? This can be a thin veneer or a deeply rooted, multi-layered fear. In either case, it can enshroud them. Yet, their essence is one of the purest, most simplistic energies. It is of love, goodness, honesty and companionship. This essence is as deep as any layer of fear, so it is in constant conflict. The horse cannot begin to live its fullest, or have any sense of serenity with this monstrous weight bearing on its soul. The horse can survive, but not fully live.

While Franklin worked with these souls, I saw the battle within begin. On a day to day basis, any animal can submerge their turmoil, but today, Franklin began pulling the scabs, forcing open the locked doors of protection and guiding their release. The individual wars that ensued varied in degree. Though neither was of lesser or greater value. These horses wanted so badly to release their fears. Their true essences were heaving and reaching for the surface and their fears were holding tightly to keep their footing. As with anything, when intent is of a pure essence, it triumphs. Each horse had its moment of triumph. For one horse, it was a palpable moment. For the second horse, the triumphant releases, the moments of overcoming parts of the fear, were just as huge, but were so occluded with fear, that if you weren’t paying attention or if you were blinded with your own fear, it would have been missed. Even so, it was a hugely successful and triumphant day for them both. It is a beginning for each. They both have the strength and essence to see them through to peace. They also have Franklin.

What Franklin did today may seem like most of his days with horses. A successful one, of course, but in essence, its just what he does. It is a part of his essence. Now, granted, he is well aware of what happened- I saw him rejoice in their releases. Anyway, what he did today was an act of true healing. It was one so incredibly and solidly guided by Spirit. His focus was so intent, his love, peace and compassion was so thorough that with each moment of fear for the horse, its essence knew it was ok to begin overcoming. Franklin opened the door and held out his hand to guide the horse’ true self out and onto the surface. He was protection and reassurance. He kept the first horses’ outer self-occupied with exercise, all the while coaxing out its fear. He allowed the horses’ outer consciousness to busy itself while his subconscious faced down and processed out the fear. And, BOOM!!!! I think it took the horses’ outer consciousness by surprised when that first big blob of fear popped out and away. Such a battle for the horse, such love and guidance by Franklin.

For the second horse, Franklin first showed that he wouldn’t push any unnecessary limits with the horse. Then, he literally played protector. He placed himself between the horse and its fear. He kept the object of fear at bay from the horse, beat the fear into submission (all the while, the horse was fearfully peaking around Franklin at the object of fear) and then re-introduced the object to the horse. Through this display, the horse haltingly accepted Franklin as protector and leader, so when he placed the fearful wand and bag close to the horse, its essence understood and began to fight its way to the surface. In bursts and fits, it began to crack the façade of fear. Franklin not only supported this horse energetically and physically, but verbally as well. He gave both empowerment and encouragement to the horse by telling him to “Stay your ground. Stay your ground.” And, the horse did its absolute best to. It was unbelievable. Again, it is a beginning. An incredibly beautiful and sacred experience.

10 June 2004

It not only impresses me, but also inspires me to have found a philosophy, a ‘Way’ that covers all realms of being, all aspects of life and all species across the board. This Way of teaching ‘horse’ is also the way to teach ourselves. There are slight modifications, slight tweaks, so to speak, depending on individual personality and behavior. Yet, young or old, horse or human, it takes peace, quiet, confidence and light to heal and make change.

This way of being can and should encompass all aspects of life. It takes away blame, anger, resentment, judgment, fear and failure, replacing it with acceptance, encouragement, empowerment, companionship and love. It allows us to stand where we are and begin a new way of being. There is no need to “come to terms with….”, or understand where we’ve been, what we’ve done or has been done to us (whether horse or human), we just begin. This new self awareness and nonjudgmental view of ourselves and others allows us to see what is and how to improve upon. It expands our modes of communication by emanating from the heart instead of the head. In order to have a successful relationship with horses, we must first strip away the negative beliefs and fears that we have carried for so long and become clear. What do we have to lose?

For the first time, I truly understand what many religions and spiritualities are trying to convey. Words hinder the true essence of it, but through connecting with something that is true and unhindered (the earth, nature, animals, the Creator) we can see that by abolishing self-imposed restrictions such as fear, we are left with light, love, peace and acceptance, and so, we grow and are truly free.

11 June 2004

The first step of my journey has been taken. Wow, what a step! This past week has opened so many doors. I feel cleansed, lighter and clearer. I have learned so much about myself and horses. It is amazing how similar we are. We are a looking for understanding, companionship, honesty, respect and trust.

My time with Franklin and the horses taught insight, quietness and connection within myself and the horses. I learned to quiet my mind and heart and truly listen. We, as humans, get so caught up in and rely heavily upon words to express our thoughts, desires and feelings. Yet, if ready, the horse can help to bring us back to center and remember how to express with our hearts and bodies. Communication is a multi-leveled action. By learning to clear ourselves and listen with all of our senses, we are able to hear and interact with all of creation. It is a wonderful gift that we often ignore and sometimes forget. To practice this remembrance and to pull it fully to the front again, the ground work with horses is essential. It gives us time to connect with the horse and reconnect with ourselves before the journey begins. It is a moment to stretch our muscles and to quiet and focus our minds and hearts as well. It is a time to confront any issues, clear them and begin; it creates and strengthens the connection between us and the horse. It is ‘right action’ and a way of being that I resonate strongly with. I will use this with myself and all that I come into contact with for the rest of my time.