A Ride for Life

By Amanda Moore

No matter the destination, life’s journeys are easier when you’re prepared.

For many of us cowboys and cowgirls, we generally prefer to ride in a saddle. The role of the saddle is to protect the horse’s back from sores and chafing. It also spreads out the weight of the rider across the horse’s back to ensure that there is no back soreness or injury. A saddle basically balances the weight of the rider on the horse’s back and protects the horse from unknown elements of the ride such as brush and thorns. For me, this piece of equipment is a necessity that prepares me to go the distance.

A saddle allows me to comfortably go on longer rides, not necessarily making the ride easier, but making the ride much more comfortable and manageable. The saddle gives me something to hold on to when the ride becomes rocky or unsteady. This special piece of tack can carry the most important survival items for the rider and horse in preparation for the uncertain trail ahead. Some items in my pack, tucked away in my saddle, are a knife, my raincoat, water, a first aid kit for me and my steed, a protein bar and a map. These are items I deem as a necessity when going into the unknown wilderness. At night, the saddle can be used for a place to lay my head to sleep, serving as protection through the campout night.

The Bible is a similar tool like the saddle that we should all cling to. Just as cowboys to their saddle, the Bible creates balance for our uncertain trail ahead. For me, it provides both physical and spiritual protection that life throws my way as I am blazing down the famous trail labeled “life.” With the wisdom of the Bible, it gives me the tools to make the road ahead manageable. It provides a map or direction for me to follow when I have lost my way. Of course, the ride is not without its ups and downs but with the proper tools and being prepared, I have the strength, perseverance, and spirit to carry on.