"NO ONE WHO CONCEIVES HIM ONLY AS A POTENTIAL SERVANT TO MAN CAN APPREHEND THE MUSTANG. THE TRUE CONCEIVED MUST BE A LOVER OF FREEDOM - A PERSON WHO YARNS TO EXTEND FREEDOM TO ALL LIFE."
- J. Frank Dobie
FREEDOM Our new addition to the
FREEDOM...the word many of us think of ahead of Independence Day. A question comes to mind… why do certain wild horse photographs create such a close association with freedom for us? Why do wide open spaces, a view of nature, or a wild stallion galloping across the plain resonate so powerfully within us and cause us to think of, and long for, freedom? HERE ARE MY TWO CENTS Two reasons - one innate within us, and the other a result of association with the American identity. First, I believe we can all agree that there is something innate within us that longs for freedom. We were designed (as recognized by the founders of our country) to live in liberty, free from the constraints of servitude, oppression, fear, and worry. This longing is stimulated when we experience awe - “Those transcendent moments of awe”, as John Milton said, “that change forever how we experience life and the world.” Immersing ourselves in nature, or watching a herd of wild horses run uninhibited, leads us to a sense of awe. It helps reset our vision. When we stand in awe at a scene in nature, we long for how we are supposed to live - free, confident, unworried. This association of certain images with freedom also may have something to do with our identity as Americans (in my case, an acquired identity). For example, how the wild mustang has become a symbol of the American spirit - rugged, independent, a fighter, free, fast, an untamed adventurer, a defender and protector. The American rugged spirit has carried us through war and peace, prosperity and depression, times of social turmoil, times of national pride. A place people from all over the world look to and long to be a part of due to it's freedom and opportunity. FREEDOM IS A GIFT As we celebrate Independence Day, we remember the sacrifices that have been made for our country to be free. I encourage you to maybe look around at creation, stand in awe and wonder, embracing the beauty and being reminded of what it feels like to live free. Wishing you a happy Independence Day! Maria
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An equestrian for most of her life, award winning photographer Maria Marriott combines her passion for horses with her art and the desire to bring public awareness to the American mustangs and the healing power of horses. Maria Marriott Photography is a proud supporter of non-profit organizations that tirelessly work to ensure the well-being of the American wild horses and promote healing through equine therapy.
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