Every now and then you go some place or do something just like you have done many times, but somehow this time it is different. That was my experience this week end going to a horse show just like I have gone every year for the past thirty years.

Wow, talk about a learning experience, this years Indiana Celebration was a horse show to remember. I love horse shows and I especially love the Tennessee Walking Horse. At this years show it was more than just a horse show. I was able to learn about greed, competitiveness, family values, and integrity.

Greed

Did you know that there are people out there that want it all? Yes, they do not want anyone else to win any of the blue ribbons and trophies. You see I actually like people. If you like people then you have compassion for their feelings and their dreams. When I go to a horse show I enjoy watching the little kids that are happy weather they get a ribbon or not. They seem to be content just to be riding the horse.

It is especially interesting to watch the ladies class. Women seem to be more natural at riding then men do. They sit up straight and look really good in the saddle. While some are more competitive than others. Just the challenge of riding a thousand pound horse seems to be rewarding to most.

Now the professional classes are a different story. It is just awesome to watch the trainers as they ready their mount for the competition. It is so obvious that they take a special pride in each and every animal that they have prepared for the show. It is almost like the trainer has a special relationship with the animal that only the two of them can, or will ever, understand.

Regrettably this week-end I did not get to witness the joy of people enjoying the animals that God put us dominion over. Instead it looked as though the competitors wanted to win at any cost.

Competition

Usually there are at least two or three horses in each of the classes that are so close in ability, that it is hard to determine who won the class. It is very subjective. Some judges like a free going horse while others seem to like a horse that has lots of speed or animation.

Watching the horses strut their stuff was a fascinating experience. The quality of horses was exceptional. The beauty of the high headed, deep walking, high stepping horses was every bit as exciting as I had perceived. Yet something was missing and it was missing badly. It was the important ingredient of good sportsmanship. One could scarcely enjoy the beautiful horses in front of you without hearing negative and undeserved remarks from horse owners who were not winning. What happened to the day when someone did well and we were happy for them? Lets face it, there is only one blue ribbon winner in each class. I would not even take my horse to the show if I required a blue ribbon in order to be satisfied. Obviously we are in competition and winning is the objective but I say that sportsmanship is just as much a part of winning as it is of losing. There is no excuse for rudeness on the part of any one in attendance.

Family Values

When I go to a multi-night show I really look forward to the fellowship after the horse show. Many of us have campers and enjoy getting together after the horse show. This can be fun for everyone that is involved, from mom and dad to grandmother and the kids. Even the family dog is involved in part of the action.

But at this particular show it seemed that too much drinking, bad language, and character bashing were the rule instead of the exception. Many times we confuse having an opinion with being straight out vulgar! While this bothers me in all circumstances it is especially alarming when kids are present. Bad language and poor sportsmanship are learned behavior. Adults should lead the way in teaching the value of sportsmanship. Actually we should sincerely be happy for the winners of each class. When we lose that love and respect for others then we lose the love and respect from others.

Integrity

Do you walk the walk and talk the talk? That is the question we should ask ourselves. Attending horse shows has been a past time for me for over thirty years. While I have certainly seen judging and fan participation that has been less than desirable, it has been the exception and not the rule.

Winning at all cost is not winning at all. If you think it is okay to cheat as long as you do not get caught then you have an integrity problem. Just because someone else cheats to get an advantage does not mean that it is permissible for all who compete. If you truly have integrity then you will not compromise for anyone.

Horse shows are just one of many types of competition were competitors and fans alike will get the opportunity to test their skills and enjoy themselves. In the process of competition one can teach and learn not only how to have a good time but also how to be a good sport. No matter where you are, who you are, or what you are doing, it is important to practice good sportsmanship while exhibiting family values and integrity. This is true in the work-place, at home, at little league ball games, and in all walks of life.