Licking and Chewing on what partnership can REALLY be

I have been spending time with a second horse and really decided to commit to him as if he were my own. I have spent hours working on the relationship and trying to show him how much I care. He is in a herd of around 15 horses in a large pasture and now comes to me when I call. Lately, he's been cantering to me. Oh, what a feeling! I love beginning or ending my day by seeing him. He's so curious and interested and seems to really want to be with me. This is addictive! It has got me thinking about my relationship with my horse, which has come a very long way. I have begun to see the major difference in what a relationship can be when there is no pushing, making, or frustration coming from the human. I am sad to say I spend the first few years with my horse frustrated much of the time and tried quite a few different trainers and techniques that did not put the relationship first. I try to find the gift in every experience and hitting rock bottom with my girl got me to commit to the Parelli Program. We wouldn't have come to where we are today without that! We have a great connection now, but by seeing through another horse's eyes, I see more of what is possible and am determined to do what it takes to get her looking at me with that same inquisitiveness, and have a new goal of her cantering to me every time she sees me. My eyes are opening to that delicate balance between strong leader and pushover, and I am so thrilled and excited to continue this journey with these amazing partners who have only just begun to show me the way...