Open Letter, by Marcy Reninger

There's a lot to be said for volunteerism. We all reap benefits we would otherwise lack, if it weren't for those selfless souls out there doing what they do best. The art in volunteering for some is providing something you may not even be aware of. I say "art" because some people just plain have a knack for helping others -- it's a way of life rather than a choice. I could say that the world could be divided in two: givers and receivers - BUT - I should like to think we can all be a little of both.

Here at Westernaires, I think we've all been duly informed on the benefit and necessity of volunteering. We've been asked, required and yes, even forced to pitch in. But what would Westernaires be, if it weren't for the people behind the scenes? I have a good idea; and with very little thought, I think you would too. The adults and kids together make it possible for us to simply exist. Because of volunteers, the riders of Westernaires are organized and on time, ride in the arenas safely, perform for some of the most appreciative audiences around, and have a good time doing it. There is no better feeling for them than to hear the thunder of applause as they complete a performance -- that's all the thanks they need .... or is it?

Have you ever thanked your monitor for keeping the team on track? How many times have you been irritated because your caller bothered you right in the middle of something important, like your favorite tv show? Have you ever gone out of your way to acknowledge your child's instructor for showing up every ride and nurturing them along? When is the last time you stopped Myrna or Bonnie (or anyone in green) to let them know how grateful you were that the horses are in capable hands, the tack was in good working condition or they knew where your child's horse was? Who would ever think of First Aid? It took some major rattling, but I do now. If it weren't for the two First Aid volunteers on my daughter's team, her injury earlier this summer would have been almost too much for me to bear. There are quite a few others we seldom seem to warrant a measure of gratitude: the flag dads, the builders and remodelers, the Posse, Mary Moore, Sharon and her faithful helpers (and great food!), the costume guardian angels and seamstresses, the caretaker, Linda in the store ...

Like Jerry Seinfeld would say: Yadda Yadda Yadda! But really, if the general population of Westernaires is genuinely thankful, is an Attaboy so much to ask? If you have a gripe, I hope you do something to address it. Getting involved is a great start. Get your finger on the pulse of Westernaires , and see where you could fit in to make it even better. Yes, it could be even better! Just stop and take a look around next time you're up by the Fort. Who would have imagined such an exciting project would come in part by our misfortune when the blue arena collapsed? It has taken a lot of people to task, spearheaded, of course, by Mr. Keller to make it happen.

We all have busy lives, much too busy to do more. You often feel pulled in so many directions you're about to fall apart. But I should hope that when it IS possible, you will step to the front and help when you can. As role models for our children, our actions speak volumes more than the sometimes little things we do. My grandma always told me (honest!) that "Many hands make light work" -- my dinner rolls may not have looked as pretty as hers, but it left her free to concentrate on that out-of-this-world fried chicken she served up. She always thanked me for the help, but actually I was the one thankful, that I could be part of something so special. And so it goes with life in general. If there is anyway you can lighten the load of another, you will walk away yourself enriched.

I hope that you will give some thought to your own situation, and if you're comfortable with where you are, that's okay. If you're not, speak up -- we'll come up with something you'll enjoy.

And -- thank YOU -- for getting your child here, paying your fees, cheering your team on and indulging your child's desires. ATTABOY!

Attention all Tenderfoot Moms & Dads, friends & families - The Tenderfoot year is a very special time in your Westernaire experience. We'll soon be in the thick of things, especially with Annual Show on our doorstep. Here's your chance to make a difference. Talk to your monitor and find out how you can pitch in. We're all looking forward to a wonderfully rewarding first year in Westernaires - be a part of the success!!

Here's a poem by Amy Reninger:

There's a rare and special quality in the way some people live
However busy they may be, they still have time to give.
Anything you ask or need, they'll do their very best,
No matter what the task is - or how simple the request.
Kindness just comes naturally to this rare and selfless few.
Special, giving people - people just like you!