Empowering Women Through Horses: Share Your Story
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Chapter 1: Calling All Horsewomen
Horse enthusiasts, unite! This message is for anyone who cherishes and interacts with horses.
After recently completing my book, At the Edge of the Forest, I've been contemplating my next writing venture. The familiar saying, "write what you know and love," resonated with me, and I realized I need your assistance for this new project.
I invite you to join me in crafting a collection of short stories centered around women and their relationships with horses. Would you be willing to share your story with me?
Take a moment to reflect on the deep connections and cherished memories that horses have brought into your life, whether from childhood or adulthood. The world of horses, particularly for women, is enchanting, empowering, and thrilling—what is it about these majestic creatures that inspires and touches your heart?
I'm seeking stories that encapsulate the essence of truth, spirit, and your passion for horses. Here are a few prompts to spark your creativity:
- What ignited your passion for horses?
- At what age did it begin?
- What qualities of horses inspire you?
- How does riding make you feel?
- What significance do horses hold for you?
While your narrative doesn't have to strictly answer these questions, they are designed to guide you in sharing what I hope to compile into this book. I want to hear your heartfelt experiences.
Currently, the tentative title for this book is Women and Horses: When Our Souls Take Flight. This may evolve, but it reflects my vision for now. The collection will feature my personal journey with horses while living on a working ranch in Mexico, a section dedicated to the history of women and horses, myths, legends, and an exploration of how women have found empowerment in a traditionally male-dominated realm. Expect poems, quotes, and of course, your contributions.
Submission Guidelines
As much as I dislike setting rules, they are necessary. By submitting your story, you relinquish rights to the exact text provided; however, you are free to reinterpret the same moment in a different way.
I will send a form for you to sign, confirming this arrangement. Your stories are voluntary, and if included, will feature a photo of you with your horse, alongside your name as a contributing author.
How to Submit
- Attach your story as a Word document, double-spaced, and email it to [email protected], including a brief bio of up to 100 words.
- Your story should be a minimum of 1,000 words and a maximum of 1,500.
- Let me know if you'd like to be part of this project so I can add your name to the list.
- Include a selected photo for your story in a separate attachment, along with your full name and location.
- Provide the name of the photographer for copyright credit.
Editing Process
Don’t stress about grammar or punctuation; I’ll handle the editing. What matters most is your unique perspective and storytelling.
This book aims to capture the heart and soul of women and their profound connection with these powerful, mythical, and beautiful creatures—ones that challenge us and reveal our strengths, even when we feel depleted.
This project is ambitious, and I genuinely appreciate your willingness to participate. My previous book flowed out of me quickly, and I anticipate this one will be similar. I expect to finish the first draft within a year.
Once you submit your story, I’ll keep you updated with monthly progress reports and sneak peeks of upcoming chapters. As a thank you, you’ll receive a complimentary copy of the book, along with a short bio of each contributor at the end.
I know many of you have inspiring stories to share. I can’t wait to hear from you!
Here’s a photo of Mary Mairs Chapot, one of the pioneering female equestrians who represented the U.S. Equestrian Team at the 1964 Olympics.
Chapter 2: Inspiration from Experts
To enrich your understanding of the bond between women and horses, I recommend these insightful videos.
Dressage Trainer Natasha Althoff: My Horses, My Story & How to Improve Your Riding
In this engaging guest vlog, Natasha Althoff shares her journey with horses and offers tips for enhancing your riding skills.
Geraldine Brooks - Horse Interview!! 2022
This interview with Geraldine Brooks delves into her experiences with horses and the meaningful connections formed over the years.