Nayeli Mesa is a Marine Corps veteran who attended our June Collaborative Horsemanship workshop here at War Horse Creek. This was a very special workshop with many memorable moments.

Below you can read about Nayeli’s experience:

“My name is Nayeli Mesa and I was fortunate enough to have spent a weekend at War Horse Creek. I was constantly surrounded by nature, amazing animals, and people that were all very welcoming, caring, and exceptionally professional. Taking care of a horse and getting to know a horse as close and as personal as one has the opportunity to do here is an experience that made me re-connect with a side of myself I thought was long gone; a side that isn’t glued to a device, surrounded by city noise, or isn’t constantly anxious. It made me realize how important it is to live in the moment, be aware of how my emotions can affect others, and how beautiful it is to connect with nature and feel at peace. Learning good horsemanship was an opportunity to get to know about the fascinating world of horses, and it allowed for a closer and deeper understanding of the wonderful creature that is a horse. The activities one gets to do with the horses make one feel in-control and focused. Afterwards, one feels accomplished and amazed at the unique experience that is connecting with a horse energetically. 

One also learns from the horses. They have an extraordinary way of reaching into one’s heart, and show one the need to live in the moment, take a breath, and to have confidence in oneself. Horses taught me to trust myself more, enjoy the little things in life, and to lose my fear of failure. Working with horses made me re-think my attitude towards life. It helped me re-value my surroundings and life itself. The fast-paced lifestyle of the city doesn’t always allow one to take time to reflect, analyze and correct one’s behavior. With horses, it is imperative to do so, especially if one is attempting to successfully have a horse work with you. 

I left Camp Harris filled with gratitude and with joy. I was grateful to have experienced a re-connection with nature, to live near and to have had a close interaction with the magnificent horses, and with all the people that are part of War Horse Creek. The care everyone has of the animals living in the property is palpable and refreshing to see, especially in a world filled with a lot of hate and animosity. I am also grateful for the fellow veterans that spent the weekend alongside myself. It was an opportunity to meet new people that have similar experiences as myself.

Places like War Horse Creek must continue to exist. They are a sanctuary not just for the animals, but for veterans as well. It is a place that provides peace, nature and nourishment for the soul. The work that the staff is doing is not only professional and informative but also very thoughtful and devoted to the best quality and satisfaction of all visitors. Places like War Horse Creek are what many need to not only to re-connect with nature, but to also to re-connect with oneself and with the many gifts life has to offer. “