Yesterday I had an interspecies telepathic communication with a trio of horses, two geldings and a gypsy drum stallion. Their owner was disturbed because the young stallion had begun driving the older gelding away, isolating him. This herd lives a very natural lifestyle and, until recently, were unusually harmonious. In fact, their owner takes great pride in how well the herd interacts, so the young stallion’s actions offended her sensibilities.
First I communicated with the young stallion to find out why. According to him, the older gelding was not respecting his leadership and until he did would have to be driven out. He was not angry, just very matter of fact. In his mind this was the natural order of things and it was the gelding’s choice. He felt he was being firm and fair.
Second I communicated with the older gelding. He was angry that the “little piss ant” was being such a tyrant. He much preferred the ways of the original herd leader, another gelding. But he was also quick to state that he was getting plenty of food and water so not to worry. It was just the fellowship of the herd he was missing.
Finally, I spoke with the other gelding who has been herd leader for quite some time. His perspective was totally a surprise. He stated that the young stallion was preparing to take over as herd leader and needed to gain experience. The gelding would have to deal with having a new leader and respect his rules. However, he also wanted his owner to know that, if necessary, he would intervene to prevent injury.
When next I spoke with the owner, she was recounting recent herd antics and mentioned the stallion grabbing the gelding by the withers. She was pleased to see there was no injury, but still unhappy with the behavior. I was delighted as this confirmed what the stallion communicated to me and clearly demonstrated his intent to be firm and fair.
So we come back to perspective. The owner sees a problem that needs to be fixed. The stallion and old herd leader believe everything is fine and as it should be. They are confident that given time the gelding will acquiesce and honor the new leader. The gelding is miffed but it seems his real problem is dealing with change. Remember none of the herd has been injured during this time. Pretty remarkable and certainly preferable to the wild where the gelding would have been driven out entirely and left to fend for himself.
As I reflected upon this communication, I was once more in awe of the original herd leader. Every time I have communicated with him I have been impressed by his kindness and wisdom. To hear his very practical thoughts on preparing for the day when he would pass the leadership torch was awe inspiring.
Contrast his perspective with many humans who deal with transfer of leadership by acts of violence and war. We could learn a lot by listening to benevolent leaders such as this.
