Genius vs Sacrifice
Don’t you just love when one of these kids come along like the little girl on America’s Got Talent and just blows you away with a voice that could only be being channelled from a deceased former star through an act of God! Such a gift of genius which springs out so naturally and seemingly without effort literally makes me cry when I experience it every single time. It must be like flying on one’s own if you’re that person.
But that does not in any way mean that even these tiny proteges will not make the same if not bigger sacrifices throughout their lives for their “gift”. I think probably the opposite is more true - the child is so focused on their art or sport that they forego a normal childhood in the pursuit of perfection. Just watching shows like “So You Think You Can Dance” or the documentary, “Every Little Step” and you see the tremendous sacrifices these young people have made for the love of their art. Even those who are totally natural talents show the bruises, both physical and emotional, that come with the territory.
It is the same for riders- or at least it should be. No matter how gifted a young person or adult is who has come to me for training, I have always been determined that they understand and live the life of the “complete horsemaster”, not just be a good or even great rider. They have to love it enough to make the hard sacrifices which I believe 99% of the “Greats” all made to become who they were or are. Sometime, I feel that riders today just don’t feel the need for sacrifice, but honestly, I have little interest in those people when it comes right down to it. I want to feel the passion from my students ansd see their ongoing commitment which makes them push beyond their wildest dreams to achieve what they never believed possible. And I don’t want to hear whining about it. Katherine Bateson, who some very nasty people have written unkind things about since she made her first WEG Team two weeks ago, has sacrificed more than most people could imagine to train with me and I can tell you that she never complained once in 16 years, dispite having probably more than enough reason to do so on countless occasions.
Genius, Talent, Determination, Sacrifice, Work, Focus, Intelligence, Luck and LOVE! All words which relate to the road toward perfecting one’s art.
Cheers!
RD
fran Goodsell — August 30, 2010 @ 3:01 pm
Your last line starting with Genius, Talent.etc.etc.. are all words to describe katherine Bateson-Chandler. Anyone who would say anything bad about this wonderful person is just a boring stupid idiot. And believe me! this girl has more friends and supporters than negetivity on her side, so watch what you say jealous haters! I hate Haters!! and even more so, the jealous untalented riders who cry poor mouth. just sayin:)
Fran
Debs — August 30, 2010 @ 3:41 pm
Well said Fran. It makes me sad that people can’t be happy for other people and make the choice to live in the negative. Can you imagine meeting these people? Yuck!!
Alison — August 30, 2010 @ 8:32 pm
you should add “teflon skin” to that list of things that you need. So all the negative gossip rolls right off you….. and you keep on going.
Kim — August 31, 2010 @ 11:59 am
After 16 years, I’m sure you can vouch for her (Katherine’s) character and abilities. I have no doubt that what you say is true, but I suspect there are many of us out here who think that it must have been more of a privilege than a sacrifice to have had your mentorship for all those years. Even without knowing her, I’d bet she would say the same!
Katherine Bateson — August 31, 2010 @ 1:08 pm
Have no fear Kim. I know exactly how priviledged I have been in my career and life so far. I wouldn’t change one day. Robert knows how much he does and always will mean to me and not just for the horse and riding aspect but in many other life lessons!! We have had our ups and downs as all good relationships have but I always know Robert will be there for me and I for him! Trust me. I try very hard to not pay attention to any negativity which for me is not easy but is becoming another life lesson! I have absolutely incredible support from my friends and family even people that I have never met. My moto is all about good karma! So watch out if you send negativity out. It will bite you in the A**!!!!!! lol!
love Kaherine
Kim — August 31, 2010 @ 2:36 pm
Katherine,
What a lovely response!! I’d be happy for Robert to enjoy success with his new “team”, but even more thrilled for Team USA to achieve their dreams. Best of luck…I’m sure all past and future honors are well-deserved!!!
Jane Savoie — August 31, 2010 @ 9:39 pm
Hi Katherine,
I have not heard or read anything negative and can’t even imagine it. I have also known you since you were 16 when you first came to Robert’s barn. I have to say you are without a doubt one of the hardest-working, humble, dedicated, and gracious human beings I’ve ever had the privilege to know. All I can say is, “You’re a class act, Kiddo!”
Love you lots!
Jane
Katherine Bateson — September 1, 2010 @ 8:40 am
Thanks Jane!!!!
Thats so so sweet!! Hope I see you soon. Miss you!!!!
Love Katherine
michelle — September 2, 2010 @ 5:18 pm
Katherine kick butt that will be the best revenge to all the negative nellies:) GO USA sorry Robert:) but I’d love a North American sweep:)
Carlota Selbo — November 7, 2011 @ 11:15 am
You could definitely see your enthusiasm in the work you write. The arena hopes for more passionate writers like you who are not afraid to mention how they believe. All the time follow your heart.
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