Volunteerism – one Grandmother’s point of view.
Volunteerism, a noun. The policy or practice of volunteering one’s time or talents for charitable, educational, or other worthwhile activities, especially in one’s community.
The policy or practice, not once in a while when you feel like it. It also does not mean to give up all your free time. We all have wasted minutes within our days, weeks, months… and we say, “Wow where did that time go”. Do we have anything to show for it? Do we have a feeling of accomplishment, or calluses on our hands, or red ant bites – too many to count?
The feeling when you help someone build their dream. Give them the benefit from your wisdom (age affords us), and in turn you learn something from them that you knew nothing about. Volunteerism is a reciprocal relationship. Some might disagree… saying that the giver gets more than the receiver… If that is true… then you are doing it right.
Imagine a world where everyone donated a little of their time to something…
That is a world that I would like to leave to my grandchildren. That is why I volunteer WITH them. To show them that a little time, and a little hard work makes you a better person.
If you choose to volunteer at a horse non-profit, find somewhere you are treated with respect. Don’t expect it to be easy. You will be given a bit of a list of “the dirty work” to do, but rest assured the owner herself has done it before. She coaches us every step of the way.
We feed, muck, pull weeds, brush the horses, and I can’t tell you how much fun we have. Conversing about the love of nature, horses, and we learn. We learn that hard work is gratifying, we learn that you need to dream your work – and work your dream. I only hope that my grandchildren learn the lessons that I have brought before them, and continue after I am gone.
I always say, “If I didn’t learn something today, then I feel cheated”.
Don’t feel cheated…. Give your time, talents, attention to some worthwhile activity… especially in one’s community.
A post by Lois Margaret Dominique
While Maverick Horseback Riding does not have a “Horse Volunteer Program,” we do offer an Apprenticeship Program. There are opportunities for individuals to get involved for day, week, monthly and overnight spaces. While spaces are limited, this is a great way for individuals to get some more hands-on experience with horse care and ranch management.
If you are interested in getting some more hands-on experience with horses, equine care and ranch management, please contact us for more information.
–The Maverick Horseback Riding Team
