Free Rein: A Horse’s Story

Anna Bori Forgács


I was born to run, to feel the earth under my hooves, and to live free. I am a horse, wild at heart and full of spirit. People say I’m strong, graceful, even a symbol of freedom.

In the wild, I’m part of a herd—my family. Together, we move as one across fields, swift and silent. In the herd, we have each other’s backs. We can communicate without words—a soft neigh, the flick of an ear, or just a look. We trust each other completely, and with that trust comes freedom. Alone, we’re vulnerable, but together, we’re safe, powerful, and strong.

Sometimes, though, I’m with humans. They call me their partner, companion, and friend. They offer me care, food, a warm hand on my neck. They have their saddles but the best humans understand that I can’t be fully controlled. My heart is free, and my spirit is wild. Those who know me well see that I’m more than just an animal; I’m a creature with a mind and will of my own. The humans who respect that get my respect in return.

Humans are amazed that I can sense how they feel, picking up on their moods without a single word. They don’t realize that’s just what horses do. When a rider gives me “free rein,” letting me choose my path, I know they trust me. They let go of control, and in that moment, we become a team.

When I’m out on a run with my rider, we’re moving as one. We’re partners, sharing the thrill of running free. The weight of the rider feels less like a burden and more like having a friend alongside me, and together, we chase the feeling of freedom.

Even with the humans I care about, I stay true to myself. I still remember what it’s like to be wild—to feel the grass, the open land, and the joy of running without limits. I am strong, gentle when I want to be, powerful when I need to be. And no matter how close I get to the humans, I am always myself. I am a horse, a creature made to live free. Even when they put reins on me, even when I’m asked to follow, I am still wild at heart. I’ll carry them as my friends and partners, but my spirit? That will always belong to the wind.