Horse Whisperers

As I was re-reading one of my e-books by Josh Waitzkin (I may write about this guy someday!), I was re-impressed (but much stronger this time) by some truths. I'm sure everyone can identify and learn something from them.

There are two basic ways of taming a wild stallion.

First, is the traditional way of breaking down the horse. You tie it up and freak it out. Shake paper bags, rattle cans, drive it crazy until it submits to any noise. Make it endure the humiliation of being held bondage by a rope. Once it's partly submissive, you tack the horse, get on top of it and show who's the boss. The horse resists, twists and fights, but there is no escape. Then, it drops to its knees in pain, frustration and exhaustion. Finally, nearing the point of death and having its spirit broken, it yields. This method is what many called Shock and Awe.

Second, is the way of the horse whisperers. You can click here to wiki on the first few known horse whisperers. Josh's mom was a horse trainer. She trains them from young by handling them gently. Here's an excerpt:

"My mother explains, "When the horse is very young, a foal, we gentle it. The horse is always handled. You pet it, feed it, groom it, stroke it, it gets used to you, likes you. You get on it and there is no fight, nothing to fight." So you guide the horse toward doing what you want to do because he wants to do it. You synchronize desires, speak the same language. You don't break the horse's spirit. My mom goes on: "If you walk straight toward a horse, it will look at you and probably run away. You don't have to oppose the horse in that way. Approach indirectly, without confrontation. Even an adult horse can be gentled. Handle him nicely, make your intention the horse's intention."

"Then, when riding, both you and the horse want to maintain the harmony you have established. If you want to move to the right, you move to the right and so the horse naturally moves right to balance your weight." Rider and animal feel like one. They have established a bond that neither wants to disrupt. And most critically, in this relationship between man and beast, the horse has not been whitewashed. When trained, he will bring his unique character to the table. The gorgeous, vibrant spirit is still flowing in an animal that used to run the plains."

Are you a teacher? Or an employer? Or a parent? Do you run groups or organizations? Do you lead people?

Which of the two is your primary method?

Are the people under you discontented? Do they leave? Do your students shut you out in their minds? Does your child appears to be rebellious? Is there any connection at all? Do you recognize and encourage their natural voice and talents? Or do you shock them into submission? I know, it's much subtler normally, but I think you get the idea.