As we have therefore opportunity. let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.

                        GALATIANS 6:10

For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:  Not of works, lest any man should boast.         

                       EPHESIANS 2:8-9

Randy helping Christina Martin GET BACK IN THE SADDLE AGAIN!!!

June 21, 2007

 

Dear Editor,

 

I just wanted to take a quick moment to praise a member of our community.  I’m aware many know of Randy Johnson of Reality Ranch.  But, for those that don’t, they are missing out on a truly wonderful individual that our community owes a great deal of admiration and gratitude to for making the world a better place. 

Randy unselfishly gives his time and equine facility, but most importantly he gives spiritual guidance.  God chooses our paths in life and this is abundantly clear when you meet Randy Johnson.  The hand of God has lead Randy to his ministry and I personally am glad he chose to make Hardee County his home.    

I recently visited Randy at Reality Ranch and took him up on his numerous invitations to go horseback riding.  For those of you that don’t know Randy and myself, Randy is paralyzed from an accident thirty plus years ago and I am paralyzed from an accident fifteen  years ago.  We have very similar physical challenges; wheelchairs, medical issues, and determination to live life to its fullest. 

I’m thirty four years old and haven’t been on a horse in over eighteen years.  I was on horseback in diapers and growing up naturally found a love for barrel racing and the competition.  I enjoyed being a member of the 4-H club and carrying the American flag through the streets of Wauchula during parades.  Some of my best childhood memories involve horseback in someway, whether it be shows, parades, trail rides, summer camps, etc.  Well, once I had my car accident, I thought that life was over.  But, I quickly learned that life is what you make it, it would just be a lot more difficult.  In the past few years, I graduated college, started driving again, rode an ATV, shot a rifle, and now I can say I’m back in the saddle.  I see why there is much excitement about therapeutic riding and the benefits for physical and mental disabilities.  I knew what to expect, I could only imagine the thrill of a person who is riding a horse for the very first time.

Randy is an inspiration to me, not only physically, but spiritually.  I’m very thankful for the opportunity to ride again.  But, I am most thankful for Randy and for reminding me that I can do more and widening my eyes to new possibilities.

I just wanted to remind the community of Randy’s generosity.  I have found by inquiring on my own behalf that the adaptive saddles are built by only a few saddle builders and are expensive.   I just felt a need to remind everyone of the expense Randy must endure for the pleasure of others.  Most Hardee residents have an idea of the cost of horses and their appropriate care and I am sure Randy could use help in this area.  Reality Ranch is a full operational arena facility with roping steers, horses, barns, arena equipment, etc.  I’d like for everyone to remember Randy in their thoughts and prayers.  His ministry touches many lives and recently touched mine.  I asked Randy just how he manages and his reply, “God will provide”. 

 

Sincerely,

 

Christina Martin