I was called a "good rider" long, long, long before I was anywhere close to what I would consider being a "good rider". I don't necessarily think (or at least hope not) that I was told this in order to keep paying the trainer; I think they just set the bar really low: Can stay on for the most part, doesn't look too terrible, has decent feel, horse goes in the general direction rider is aiming, occasionally even able to do some "tricks".
The problem with dressage is that the more you know, the more you know that you don't know. You know what I mean. Every time I fix something in my position or get another piece of the inside leg to outside rein/outside aids puzzle, I think, wow, I've GOT to be close now. And I wonder how I ever even got a horse to do anything not doing this wonderful new thing.
Then I get on a mare that has "I humble my rider" etched on her forehead. And a million more things need to be learned and done. I don't think showing alone is defining "good rider" either, you can not show at all and be a great rider, or you can show Third Level, like I did, with ok scores, and be still pretty mediocre.
But if I were to define "good rider" -- I'd say that's a rider who can ride (almost) any (sound and sane) horse properly forward, stretching over the back, reaching into the contact at all three gaits. That means being able to improve the horse's balance and straightness -- all the while doing so with good timing (which requires feel), in good alignment, and with correct aids using relevant exercises.
A great (dressage) rider can, in my definition, do this all the way up to the Grand Prix movements. That of course, is my goal, but it not only requires the right abilities in the rider, but also an equine partner that is willing and able to participate in this dance. Ay there's the rub!
But here's to getting out there and getting good. And greatness shall be within reach :)
