I was just thinking about this, and thought it might be worth discussion. But, when Sayid and Shannon declared their love for each other, Sayid was able to see Walt, as Shannon had. Then when Sawyer says that he loves "her" (and we are lead to believe he is talking about Kate), and Kate tells Sawyer inadvertently about her feelings for him- he sees the horse she's been seeing. Could it be that love kind of allows them to see through another's eyes? Or let's them into the other person's world a little? :undecide:

Interesting observation, though I am not sure if the horse was real or imagined. Walt was never physically touched, only seen by Shannon and Sayid. Kate was actually petting the horse. I guess I am inclined to believe that the horse spurred Kate's memory and was not a vision.

I do think however, that all of these people (Jack's dad) or animals are there to get each character to deal with their overwhelming issues. That is why these people are on this 'island' to deal with their flashback issues. This is no island, this is therapy.