Why in the world are you using "wands"?

Caution! Warning! Strong Opinion!

(From Clare's article archives, Circa 2010-2015)

Wands.

What is this bizarre gimmick? Who came up with this strange idea?

Don't you think your horse would prefer to have human hands on their bodies? Are you intentionally trying to disconnect from your horse, rather than connect? Are you trying to push your horse away? I am aware that I am 'bucking' the "Natural Horsemanship" fads here but, come on...really? Non-sensible. Why not your hand? Do you want your horse to be a robot, that responds to a plastic stick, rather than your touch? The only thing I can think of is that you horse handlers are afraid of your horses, afraid to get close enough to touch them. Therefore, you use a stick to extend your hand further from you body, to distance yourself from your horse. Or, perhaps, you want the stick as a weapon, to keep between you and your horse, to protect yourself. Or, perhaps, you just don't want to get your hands dirty. If this is the case, I recommend that you find a different hobby/interest.

I witness you, pushing this stick, (actually, be honest with yourself, a whip), towards your horse, stroking them with it, and I see the horse thinking...

"really? Scared human, and I am supposed to gain confidence from them?". Please, someone, explaining this lunacy to me. Come on guys, use your Common Sense, How about Common Horse Sense Training?

Clarity Common Horse Sense Training.

There, I named it. I hope you have a wonderful day, and love on your horses today.