A Christmas story worth reading by Dennis Cappel

Dennis Cappel
Dec 23, 2025
2 min read

Clear Mental Horsemanship with Dennis Cappel

As I reflect on 2025, one thing rises to the surface above everything else and that is, the importance of appreciating the moment.

Most of you probably know that in November of 2024, I had my second hip replacement. By January of 2025, I began regaining mobility and the ability to move without pain. What followed was a year of rebuilding physically, mentally, and emotionally. Looking back now, 2025 has been one of the most productive years of my entire life.

That productivity did not come from doing more for the sake of doing more. It came from appreciation and thankfulness, recognizing just how important every moment truly is.

For years, my loss of mobility and physical ability happened gradually, mostly because of pain. When you lose something slowly, you do not always realize how much life has been taken from you until it is gone. I was fortunate enough to be given a second chance to regain something I had lost. I do not believe we always get that second chance, which is why I no longer take a single day for granted.

The appreciation for what we have each day, the people around us, the work we get to do, and the simple fact that we woke up again changes everything. Every morning gives us another opportunity to step forward. That is something worth recognizing.

People sometimes look at me a little strangely when they ask how I am doing, and I answer, “I’m getting younger every day.” I am not kidding. I genuinely believe that shift in mindset has played a huge role in my recovery. Attitude is one thing we have complete control over, and I believe all of us have the ability to choose to have a good day every day.

When we deliberately choose to appreciate every moment, the feeling that comes with that choice can change circumstances. Relationships can improve. Work can improve. Life can improve. Attitude is the ceiling; it is often the limiting factor to how things are working out for you.

I am deeply thankful for 2025, not just for the physical recovery but for the awareness it brought into my life. My plan to move forward is simple: live every day to the fullest for as many days as I am fortunate enough to have.

And that is something worth celebrating.

What are you celebrating from 2025? I would love to hear.

In gratitude and abundance,

Mindful Riding,

Dennis Cappel - Master Horseman

www.cappeltrainingandshoeng.com