Well, Pearl didn't take too kindly to her first exposure to having someone on her back. Now, just because I am shaped like a ball does not mean I bounce like one. I had plans to remount but the girth strap busted while she was bucking so as opposed to repairing the old saddle I think I'll plan on buying a new one. She really had no opposition to being saddled or even with me standing in the stirrups even the first 30 seconds sitting in the saddle was fine but then that darn walnut fell from the tree and landed next to us and it was all over but the very short ride, lol.

God has blessed me with a beautiful horse. She came from an abusive situation and at first I had my doubts she would ever come around to being even a friendly horse but with God blessing with patience, something of which I am usually in short supply of and some coaching from my dear friend and colleague Pastor Steve, Pearl has surpassed all of my hopes and expatiations.

Having been unable to work for the past 9 years due to some serious spinal damage, depression has taken its toll on me. I still do things I have no business doing because I miss working so much but my cat’s have been a big part in my maintaining my sanity but Pearl has given me something I thought I had lost, confidence in myself.

Being owned by a horse is not for everyone but being owned by God is. If it were not for God’s love in my life most likely I would not be here today. Most of my family and friends have stood by patiently while I became a loaner and are still there with encouragement as my struggles continue. With much regret a part of my family has let pride and deception turn their backs and I pray hard for them without ceasing.

Like Pearl, patients and effort has their rewards but the main difference is that Pearl has no pride to consume her wanting to love and be loved in return. If you have allowed pride to stand between you and others give it to God so that He can set you free from it. Carrying hate in your heart keeps you apart from God’s grace and mercy.

Unlike the ranting of the Westboro Baptist Church and Baptist Church does not belong in their title, God hates no one. He loves every one of us but hates many of the things we do. Jesus came, lived, taught and died so that every one of us might be forgiven our sins. So, please forgive those who have offended you so that you also may be forgiven.