Varieties of Victory

Awareness of the outside world. African History Extra: The medieval Knights of Ethiopia: a history of the Horse in the northern Horn of Africa (1000-1900CE), Samuel, Jun 15, 2025.

~~~

“I feel like I’ve just been treading water at best. I admit, that’s better than drowning. But I’d really like to swim.” The Backyard Horse Blog: Miniature Horse Musings

I feel this so hard.

“I’ve struggled to find “forward” in my horse life. The years have not been all bad, of course. I’m very grateful for what I do still have. The things I am still able to do with my horses. They bring so much joy.” Ibid

Agree 100%. Glad to have the horses in the backyard. I’m not sure I’d go as far as joy, but they do keep us engaged and entertained.

I have posted this quote previously. Still true. [What’s Up With The Home Team, Tack Update Rodney]

Recently, I’ve been wont to say to husband that we could use a victory around here. There’s been some off-blog stuff that I won’t belabor you with. Shit happens, cycle of life, etc. But, yeah, we could use a victory.

Superstition. Mindfulness. Call it what you will. When one asks for more, one immediately feels the need to qualify. Or, if you are me, to hit yourself with the gratitude hammer. [A Look Inside My Head]

It’s like we don’t dare complain.

The thing is that there are two types of victory. Both good.

There is the crisis victory. The victory over adversity.

Milton’s recovery from colic surgery is a good example. He came through surgery well. His recovery was smooth. He was amenable about stall rest. Nurse Rodney stepped up. Victory.

Wonderful. Very, very happy to have that victory.

However.

Negating bad things is not the same as achieving good things.

Negating bad things leaves you status quo ante, with added mental wear & tear.

Achieving good things is the progress victory. The victory that pushes you forward. Pass the test. Win the race. Use your gifts. Get the job. Find the right horse, dog, cat, date. Help the planet. Aid your fellow human. Publish the book. Display the art. Increase the amount of happiness in the world. Whatever thrills your weird.

Victories that leave you in a better place.

Yeah, a few of those, please.

Onwards!
Katherine