Currently our senior alpha bay gelding, Sky came as a tagalong, having served as companion to Victory, the object of our purchase. Carrying an “orphan spirit,” induced by a long history of broken dreams, stubby ears marking harsh weather exposure, compulsive behavior of cribbing to release his emotional stress, and an apathetic soul of isolation, Sky presented new challenges for us. His default position of intentional disinterest in the humans kept us experimenting with ways to penetrate his walled-off heart and form connections. But with patient pursuit, many trials of failing forward, working through his defiant rejection with intercession and supernatural assistance, he now offers a sincere kindness and sense of acceptance to our staff and guests. Given his many chapters of inadequacy, injustice, and scorn, it’s a marvel to see him now choose to dream again. We believe he will inspire the Father’s dreams within all those who encounter his gentle servant nature.
At age fifteen, our daughter, Rachael, began a rigorous battle with severe mold-induced migraines compounded by two concussive head traumas that left her with significant vision and hearing losses, as well as severe but temporary brachial palsy/paralysis of her right arm. After nearly 2 years of fighting, these were supernaturally and systematically healed in the Father’s perfect timing and celebrated by the intersection with this four-year-old spunky quarter horse with unusual stripes marking her glistening mouse-gray coat [Grulla]. Just days before her arrival however, she suddenly became lame. Prayerfully, we risked bringing her to the ranch believing there weren’t any hidden ailments to compromise her soundness permanently. She ambled off the trailer and enjoyed an intimate bonding session with Rachael. In days, she was fully restored! Just as Rachael’s story of brokenness and loss resolved with overwhelming and miraculous victory, the gift and timing of Tory daily reminds us of God’s relentless commitment to redeem even the darkest of circumstances. He promises to always lead His children in triumph.