It's not every day that you get to experience love in its rawest form; love free of judgment, preconceived ideas or an expectation of something in return. In fact, many of us would be lucky to experience that once in a lifetime. When you do come across such an experience, it is one that will remain emblazoned in your mind and heart forever.

I spend my weekdays trudging through the daily grind of work, a stressful commute and then a sad attempt to pack chores and errands into a few hours at the close of the day. I covet my time on the weekend and, in particular, the opportunity to spend at least one morning undisturbed by the angry beep of an alarm. More than this, it is often the only time I am able to travel north and spend time around someone who brings me joy at the mere sight of him. It's really no secret that I love my horse. His obstinate, borderline-bullying ways aside, he is a magnificent creature full of more intelligence and emotion than there are words available to describe. At the same time he both emboldens and humbles me...and I never cease to be amazed at the way just a mere glance from him can speak volumes. I have so much more to learn from him.

I only need to walk down the aisle of the barn to know that each of these animals has a story - most likely a heart-wrenching one full of mistreatment and neglect. Yet as they peer at me with kind, hopeful eyes, I am always struck by their resilience. Some of them, having been through absolute misery, will still nicker eagerly and happily accept any treats offered. I know they all have so much to offer us, if we just give them the opportunity.

I have long believed that the love and devotion of an animal is a powerful and rare thing. And now, having rescued three animals myself, I know that the love and devotion of a rescue is life-changing. To earn the trust of an animal that has only been disappointed and betrayed by humans is truly an honor. And so often the joy itself comes from the opportunity to just give love to an innocent creature so deserving.

My horse may never gallop joyfully to me when I walk to the fence of his pasture. He may never nuzzle me softly when I come into his stall. (In fact, if he did, I'd be worried that something was wrong). No, he will always be a bit aloof, proud and cautious in his devotion. Yet the moments I catch his eye following me intently as I walk away from him, or feel his warm breath on my neck as he approaches quietly behind me, are enough to wring a happy grin from me each time. I don't deserve such an incredible animal...but I am so thankful to have him and to know that kind of love.