My life endured a major upheaval last December when my husband of 32 years suffered a massive stroke. While we never appreciate these events, I must say I have learned more in the last couple of months than I’ve learned in years. I have been humbled in so many ways and newly aware of just how kind people really are.
Here’s what I’ve learned: 1) Life can change in an instant; 2) What seems important rarely is most important; 3) People really do want to help; 4) It’s a gift to let others give; 5) It’s hard to ask for help; 6) Tragedy brings courage; 7) Life is hard; 8) There is good in every situation; 9) Tragedy brings family and friends closer; 10) This experience has been a blessing.
As days pass and new challenges arise, I’ve also learned that sometimes you just have to let go and let God work. I couldn’t possibly have gone through this without a relationship with Jesus, along with the love and support of family and friends throughout the journey. I can never repay all the generous donations, help and kindness showered on us both. All we can say is a heartfelt “Thank you.”
As Mark slowly regains his strength, speech and abilities I’m forever grateful for the time we’ve spent working through this process together. It’s difficult to explain the feelings of loss over his inability to be my rock; he’s been my “go to” guy when something breaks or needs figuring out. Now the tables have turned and it has given me a new appreciation for how much he really does.
As I write this, we are planning to attend the Northwest Horse Fair & Expo in Albany, Oregon and there will be many more equine events in the months to come. I hope to see many of you. For now, please take a moment and read this month’s cover story on Bickford Trailers— one of the best companies we have here in the Pacific Northwest to help you find your dream horse trailer. Lastly, I hope to see many of you on the trail this summer; it will be good to be back in the saddle.
Quote: “Tomorrow hopes we have learned something from yesterday.”
John Wayne
Published in April 2015 Issue
Owner / Publisher | Canfield Certified Trainer
Karen Pickering is a lifelong horsewoman and the founder of The Northwest Horse Source, which began in 1995 as a small equine newsletter and grew into a respected industry publication. With more than 30 years of experience serving the horse community, Karen now focuses on helping equine businesses and organizations build visibility, credibility, and lasting relationships through online marketing, digital promotion, and educational platforms.
As a Canfield Certified Trainer, she blends proven success principles with real-world industry experience, supporting both businesses and individuals navigating change in today’s digital landscape. Karen remains deeply connected to the horse industry and is passionate about serving the community she has helped build for over three decades.
