This
past weekend I spoke to leaders at the Annual Meeting of the US Pony Club. My
topic was “Practical, Inspirational Ideas to Grow Your Club.” The room was set up for 70 and we ended
up with 120. The organizers asked if I would repeat the seminar at 3:30, because
they had to turn people away from the 1:30 program. No more standing room
even.
Now
before you think I’m bragging about myself, I’ll tell you that those people who
filed into the room didn’t know me. If you had asked them who was speaking, they
probably couldn’t have told you my name. I hadn’t opened my mouth, and we
weren’t serving food. They were excited about getting help for growing their
club. These were people passionate about helping kids with their horses.
Like
you, I hear lots of griping about what this country is coming to, and about how
far we’ve fallen from some time in the past. I am keenly aware of the troubles
facing us in the horse industry. But last week also told me that I’m not alone
in caring about these things and there are people who not only care, but are
working hard to make our world a better place.
Most
of the attendees were moms. Many had kids in Pony Club now, but an amazing
percentage had grown children who had gone through Pony Club years ago. They
recognize the contribution a horse program made in the lives of their kids, and
they want to give back.
Of
course, Pony Club isn’t the only organization where this is taking place. Ask
around where you live. You might have a great 4-H group, or High School Rodeo,
or a local trails club where knowledgeable adults give of their time and
expertise to help kids have a great experience with horses. Think about joining
them and helping out, even if you aren’t an expert.
Switching
topics, you may know that I consult with equine professionals, helping them to
market their business without having to “sell themselves.” In February, Doug Emerson and I will do
a teleseminar series on how to thrive and not just survive in the boarding
business. If you’d like information on that class, contact me via http://www.InspiredByHorses.com.
Whether
you’re a horse lover or in the horse business, don’t let the news get you down.
It’s important to remember that horses don’t change from year to year. Your
horse still has same great qualities that made you fall in love with him. And
horse people are still the best.
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