For All The Kids Who Did Not #GetThatGlobe

By Michelle Bowman

For all the kids who did not #GetThatGlobe,

I see you. I was you.

I know how incredibly hard you worked to get to the world show. All the shows that it took to qualify to compete. All the practices and preparation to be ready. All the little details that you finessed to try to set you above the rest of the competition.

But even the best laid plans go awry. Maybe you had just one bobble that kept you out of the cut. Maybe you couldn’t find the perfect rail spot to let your horse shine. Maybe you laid down one of your best patterns and it still just wasn’t enough in the judges’ eyes. Trust me – I’ve been there. I understand.

My biggest wish for you is that you were able to fill your heart with gratitude rather than disappointment as you reflect on your trip to the AQHYA World Show.

There have been many sacrifices for you to be able to attend. Be grateful to your family and your trainer for all their help. Let’s face it… you wouldn’t be there if it wasn’t for them. Did you learn a thing or two? Yes! Are you inspired by the amazing horses and riders you got to see? Yes! Be grateful for all the lessons you learned while you were there. If nothing else, be grateful for your health and your horse’s health. There are many riders across the country who have been sidelined and wish so badly they could just GO!

Someday you will be like me, looking back nearly 10 years ago and you will still remember that feeling: the exhilaration of walking through the gateway of champions, the distinct crisp smell, and the feeling of the red dirt under your boots. The memories that you made at the world show will always be bright and shining whether you won or lost. It all comes rushing back and brings a tear to my eye as I think of how grateful I am that I even got the chance.

I see you, and remember, it is an accomplishment to even make it that far.