My point is that the hardest part of feel is feeling the language of the horse, and not simply presenting our intent to a horse through feel. We generally have more trouble reading feel than we do offering feel. We are pretty good at having our say, but not listening to horses having their say.
Nature Versus Nurture
Discomfort Avoider or Comfort Seeker
People argue whether or not a horse can be happy in their work. I have serious doubts about their ability to be happy regarding work as if it were something they would choose to do. However, I do believe horses can feel contented and untroubled by working with us. But it can only come by helping them understand that their idea to avoid discomfort comes about by following our idea to work together.
Assume Everything You Are Told Is Wrong Until You Are Satisfied It Isn't
What's Changed?
There was a time when the average rider didn't ride in an arena. There was a time when people thought nothing of riding in the bush, chasing stock, going to town. Yes, the prevalence of the horseless carriage made horses more a luxury than a necessity. But surely that’s not the only reason. What else has changed?