To slow down, be patient, or wait before taking action; used to tell someone to calm down or not be so hasty.
This phrase dates back to the 1840s in America and comes from the literal need for riders or drivers to restrain their horses from moving too quickly or impulsively. Horses are naturally energetic and sometimes need to be held back from charging ahead.
The phrase perfectly captures the relationship between humans and horses throughout history - horses provided power and speed, but required constant management and restraint. It's a beautiful metaphor for human impulses, suggesting that our eagerness and energy, like a horse's, can be assets but need guidance.
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