Peace & Connection

My love for animals has been a constant thread throughout my life, a source of comfort, joy, and deep connection. On the farm at Hamsey, where the rhythms of nature guide the day, I find solace in the company of creatures who seem to understand me in ways that words could never capture. It’s here, surrounded by the familiar sounds and sights of the countryside, that I reconnect with a part of myself that often gets lost in the busyness of life.

Among the animals, there is one who holds a special place in my heart - Ben. An Irish Cob with one brown, and one curlean eye that has the depth of the Universe within. Ben is more than just a companion; he’s a mirror to my soul. He senses my emotional state with an uncanny sensitivity, as if my heartbeat echoes in his own. When I’m with him, there’s no need for words. He understands my joys, my anxieties, and my sorrows in a way that feels almost magical. Riding Ben, feeling the steady rhythm of his gait beneath me, I am reminded of the profound bond we share—a bond that transcends the boundaries of species and speaks directly to the heart.

Ben has a way of grounding me, bringing me back to the present moment, no matter what might be weighing on my mind. His presence is calming, his loyalty unwavering. On days when I feel the weight of the world pressing down, I can simply stand beside him, resting my hand on his warm coat, and feel my worries begin to melt away. It’s as if he absorbs my tension, replacing it with a deep sense of peace and connection.

The farm at Hamsey is a sanctuary for both of us—a place where the natural world and the human heart intertwine. The animals here, from the smallest bird, hare, and sheep, to the most steadfast horse, all play their part in creating a space where well-being flourishes. They remind me that I am part of a larger whole, connected to the earth and its creatures in ways that are both ancient and profound.

In Ben’s eyes, I see a reflection of the empathy and understanding that animals offer us. He teaches me patience and compassion, helping me to navigate the complexities of my own emotions with a gentle strength that I often struggle to find within myself. Through him, I’ve learned to listen more deeply, to be more present, and to appreciate the simple, quiet moments of life that are so easy to overlook.

My connection with Ben and the other animals at Hamsey is not just about physical well-being, though there’s no denying the comfort they bring. It’s about something deeper—a sense of belonging, of being understood and accepted just as I am. In their company, I find a kind of peace that nourishes my soul and reminds me of what it truly means to live well.

These relationships, built on mutual care and respect, enrich my life in ways I can hardly put into words. They remind me that true well-being is found in the connections we nurture, in the love we share, and in the quiet, steadfast companionship of those who understand us without needing to speak. Through Ben and the farm at Hamsey, I’ve rediscovered the art of living, the joy in simplicity, and the beauty of being truly connected to the world around me.