Pineridge Blog

" Creatures Great and Small" Blog by Mary Benson


Psalm 50:10-12: “For every beast of the forest is mine, the cattle on a thousand hills. I know all the birds of the hill, and all that moves in the field is mine.”

How many of us have or had a beloved pet or animal that you were especially bonded to? For me, the answer is “YES”!

August 3, 2021 was a day that broke my heart and tore at my being as I had to say “goodbye” to my beloved “heart horse,” SAVANNAH. She came into my life 16+ years ago when I needed her the most. Our two sons where in Iraq and Afghanistan fighting in the hills and mountains, and I was completing my master’s degree and fighting depression and anxiety. Savannah was a true “gift of God” because she took those overwhelming burdens away into her big warm body and taught me how to appreciate riding and being centered with her. Because of the blessed gift from God and His unwavering love, I survived and flourished. Both our sons were returned home alive and so were the men under their command. Savannah went on to also help other young riders, riders with disabilities, and older riders that had never been on a horse.

I believe, with all my being, that the gift of Savannah in my life is just a tiny piece of the love given to us by Jesus, if we only open oneself to it. My horse and the beloved animals of others -- will be waiting for me at the end of my life’s journey as I greet my LORD some bright day.