Pandemic Envy

Picture of a kitten that literally fell from the sky, rescued at 3 weeks old

My state is reopening despite having over 30,000 cases of Covid-19. I do not think that my state shut down to begin with, it certainly did not feel like that at the barn. There were no overly clean washing stations or off-limit equipment. I will credit my instructor for assigning slots to clients on when to ride and be in and out of the barn, and for limiting lessons to one or two people, but those procedures left as soon as they came. In light of the pandemic, my horse and I have grown closer. We have finally been able to do full 30 minute pole work lessons and I squealed when I learned we were allowed to do mini- cavaletti work. My dissatisfaction comes with this weekend’s practice show—a “field trip” to the fairgrounds where my team members show off their skills. My vet is hosting the event that almost everyone is going to, but I cannot because of Essie’s injury. As my barn members ready their horse and equipment before loading all onto the trailer, I am envious of those going, many younger and less experienced than me. Because of Essie’s greenness and subsequent injury, these riders now jump higher jumps and compete on more complicated courses, and earn points to qualify for regional. As they load horses, I am reminded that I have fallen behind. But I am not overwhelmingly disappointed. There will be no PPE (personal protection equipment) and the show entry fee is overpriced for a no-competition, no-judge, no-prize event.  My horse will not benefit going even if she could, and my money is best spent on her recovery rather than my ego. I will focus on clearing the mini- cavaletti.

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