When your horse trainer is more than just an instructor – when they become your best friend, mentor, counselor, life-coach, traveling companion, and a maternal figure – you are truly blessed. For me, the list of reasons to be thankful for Karen Banister is endless. She is an extraordinary woman who has not only improved my riding skills but has profoundly changed my life. This is my heartfelt attempt to express my deepest gratitude to her.
Karen, thank you for your unwavering patience through my many missed distances, my tests of gravity, and my persistent promises to finally nail that lead change. Thank you for never tiring of reminding me to engage my outside rein. I am especially grateful for your understanding during those moments when it takes me an eternity to reset a jump, when I wrestle with endless complications with tack, or when I simply cannot locate something that is right in front of me. While the list of my fumbles is long, it is precisely these moments of struggle that often lead to the most laughter. Thank you for sharing in those moments of joy and humor with me.
Your guidance has significantly expanded my knowledge of horses, encompassing their care, transportation, tack, breeds, feeding, horsemanship, and history. You have consistently responded to my rapid-fire questions without a hint of impatience. This patience has instilled in me an eagerness to learn more and has removed any fear I might have had of asking for help or advice.
Thank you for teaching me the true meaning of loving and caring for these magnificent animals. Your constant affection and dedicated effort serve as the most powerful example for me in treating our horses with the utmost respect and care. I have witnessed firsthand the innumerable, exhausting hours you dedicate to bettering the lives of your clients, your animals, and your own family, often working with early mornings, late nights, and no days off. I am deeply grateful for your sacrifice.
The horse shows we’ve experienced together are unforgettable. The successes we’ve achieved and the memories we’ve created will forever be an integral part of who I am, long after the ribbons have faded. Our many memorable road trips, with you, me, the dogs, and the horses embarking on seemingly endless drives across the country, have been invaluable. I wouldn’t want to share those conversations about life lessons, quirky thoughts, and interesting facts with anyone but you.
Countless nights spent with you, both at home and away at shows, have provided a sense of belonging. Whether at the barn, a hotel, or a camper, you create a second home wherever we end up at the end of the day. I find my best rest when I am with you, as you radiate comfort and safety. Thank you for understanding my need to sleep until the very last minute and for knowing that my mornings are not successful until I’ve had my coffee. You know my dependence on caffeine well, especially since I practically lived with you all summer – and thank you for that too.
Your support for my education and your motivation for me to learn as much as possible are truly inspiring. You encourage me to excel not only in school but also to absorb knowledge from all sources. Beyond the saddle, you have taught me invaluable lessons on how to be a better, kinder, and more thoughtful person.
Thank you for navigating my frustrating perfectionism, which has occasionally led to moments of being flustered. You have helped me realize that making mistakes is an essential part of personal growth. You have been a steadfast shoulder to lean on, taking me under your wing and providing constant support that empowers me to grow, succeed, and be my authentic self. Without your support, moving on from hardships would have been significantly more challenging. The tools you’ve equipped me with enable me to help myself and, in turn, to pay it forward and assist others, just as you have helped me.
The mind-blowing opportunities you have provided me are beyond measure. I would not be where I am today without your dedication to creating grand experiences. The opportunities you have blessed me with have set me on a path I never imagined possible. Thank you for nurturing my potential and consistently pushing me to set goals and dreams, demonstrating that dreams truly can come true.
Most importantly, thank you for the boundless love you have shown me. I will never be able to adequately express my gratitude or fully show you how thankful I am for everything you do.
Thank you for being my trainer. Thank you for making my dream come true.
Photo courtesy of Tori Weed.
