For those who are not thoroughly embedded in this lifestyle, I could see how it could be viewed as a lonely existence, but consider this for a moment... for many of us, the horse world is an incredibly fulfilling and inclusive existence. We have "friends" wherever we may go, able to relate to us and most often very welcoming. We have the opportunity to have many very real connections with other like minded folks, mentors, and peers. More often than not, we tend to watch out for each other. Most especially, when it's obvious we are in the presence of a horseman and a horse who clearly know what they are doing and exhibit a high level of skill, such as BT. This lifestyle, by many, is considered a blessing.