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Actually the “service” could be on
Tuesday evenings, Saturday afternoons or Thursday mornings – “When”
doesn’t matter – it is the “what” that makes a difference in your life.
I’m convinced that if everyone
committed just two hours a week to help another person or animal, people
would be warm and open and the world would be an infinitely better
place.
I have been blessed with the
opportunity to volunteer at Journey’s End Animal Sanctuary on Sunday
mornings. The time I spend with Florence and the cast of animal
characters has been far more rewarding for me than any assistance I have
given. There is almost a sense of guilt as I leave each week. I’m
giving my time in an effort to help – but the truth is, the love of the
animals and Florence’s laughter provide a sense of balance for me.
Working at Journey’s End helps me to relax and clear my head, as I get
ready for the week ahead.
Intentionally I arrive early in the
morning, which is a perfect time for “the challenge”. Can I make it
through the front door before I’m “spotted” and the barking begins? The
50 canine residents – enjoy taking turns sounding the “someone’s here”
alarm. The barking can go from one room to the other in a quick
minute. If I'm quiet and fast I can make it inside and start the
“petting process”. I enjoy
the tail wagging and “Pay Attention to me” – jumping up and down -
before the welcome barks spread through the house.
Most Sundays I help with breakfast
clean up and I’ll feed those who are still waiting for their “vittles”.
No matter how early I arrive, Florence is already in full gear moving
from one room to another and one animal need to another.
One very cold morning – Florence
rushed by me saying Fire is down, she handed me the phone and said “when
the vet calls back tell them to come immediately”. Then Florence was
out the door and by the side of the huge animal “Fire” in
an instant. I cannot explain how impressed I was to see Florence’s
small frame – talking to the horse and prodding him to get up and walk.
She walked Fire patiently and carefully around the yard for 20 minutes
before the vet arrived. Had she not reacted so quickly and
deliberately, I can only imagine what would have happened to Fire.
Florence is very focused on the
animals but she also makes time for the volunteers. Florence has so
many stories to tell, I really need to bring a tape recorder to get them
all down. It warms my heart to hear her yell for quiet (and the animals
listen) or watch her face glow as Lilo or Joey initiate tug of war and
wrestling with newcomer Powder (a blind hound mix).
For those two hours a week –
it’s all about the animals the stress and worry of day-to-day life
is far away. Journey’s End provides an opportunity to:
Work hard for the animals,
Play hard with the animals
and give to the creatures who are there, because other human beings did not
appreciate all that they offer.
Regardless of when or where you volunteer, people helping others make better
people. The personal gain in contributing without asking for any
payment should not be underestimated.
There is so much
to be done at Journey's End (and many other organizations across this
nation) – your talents can easily be applied. Be assured there is
enough Loving Payment (in the form of animal admiration) to go around.
If you are interested in helping please
contact us.
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