He works justice for those who are pressed down by the world, providing food for those who are hungry. He frees those who are imprisoned; He makes the blind see. He lifts up those whose backs are bent in labor; He cherishes those who do what is right. (Psalm 146:7-8)

March

I’ve been thinking a lot about our mission here at the ranch, and how much we’ve grown over the last seven years since we first opened our doors. As we think about taking the next step in our growth from a start-up mission to a sustaining one, I’m reminded of Exodus 18:17-18. Jethro points out to Moses that the work Moses is taking on is too heavy and that he can’t handle it alone. As I look to our future, I pray that God will call the people who will help usher Blazing Hope Ranch into a new era and continue to provide the necessary resources; I hope you will join me in that prayer.

Now grab a cup of coffee and find out what we've been up to!

We recently moved our horses to another part of the ranch in order to give their regular pasture a rest. They don’t seem to mind the temporary move!

Horse Mentoring - It Wasn't What She Thought It Would Be

Sue Michelena (pictured here with our newest horse, Jerry), was reluctant to volunteer. She didn’t have any experience with trauma or mental health issues, and she thought she might say or do something that would harm the ladies. But after some prayer and reflection, she decided to give it a try, and we’re so glad she did; she’s now been with us for two years. 

“I’m still here, I believe, because I learn so much and grow from these lessons as I teach them. I believe I’m called for such a time as this,” she recently told our newsletter editor. She was quick to point out that she was not going it alone, however. “If I have a concern about someone, or if one of the ladies gets upset, there’s always someone around [on staff] who can help.” Each resident is paired with a specific horse for her entire time at the ranch. Sue and other volunteers then train the ladies how to put a halter and lead rope on her horse, along with basic grooming skills. At other times they might use various activities for metaphorical learning opportunities. Ladies are also encouraged to advance beyond these basic skills to build a trusting relationship with her horse - a challenging task for someone who has been traumatized. Ultimately, “it’s her responsibility to be the best person she can be for that horse,” Sue explained. Sue also tries to be the best person she can be for the ladies, encouraging them to go past their comfort zones. For example, “cleaning the hooves can be intimidating, but Jo challenges them to step up.”  And Sue is there to help them do just that.

If you are interested in volunteering as a horse mentor, please reply to this email for more information.