We set up our chairs in a circle inside the horse barn, with barrels creating a boundary of space outside the circle. We weren't sure what to expect, but when the two horses, Max and Joe, entered the barn they seemed immediately interested in our group. Each of them posed for us to show off their magnificence as they were introduced.

Within the group our conversations about death and dying began and the two horses found a place outside the circle where they spontaneously arranged themselves in a V-shaped formation. They stood there silently, almost at attention, for quite some time. To us it felt as though they were creating a "safe container" for our discussion, holding the space within which we could share our pain and our questions.

When one group member began discussing her grief over the death of a loved one, Max sauntered over to stand directly behind her chair. He kept a vigil over her while she spoke and as other group members offered her their support. Max remained there for much of the meeting, occasionally nuzzling her shoulder gently, a reminder that she was being watched over, even in times of pain and distress.

As a group we were amazed and blessed to watch this incredible bond forming and to recognize that we humans are not so alone as we might believe in our stuggles here on planet Earth. Our horse facilitators stood by outside the circle and enhanced the connections we felt within the circle by offering us their calmness and presence.

We can say without a doubt that our Death Cafe "equine experiment" has been a great success so far. We will continue this journey forward, partnering with our horse companions, as we explore together the tender and mysterious subjects of death and dying.

by Karen Wyatt MD

www.karenwyattmd.com