A Change in Direction

Calvin
February 2012
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Last April, when Bonn and I decided to start volunteering at Conservators' Center, the first thing we agreed we wanted out of the experience was to just work with the animals and not get involved in any politics. We knew this organization, like any organization, was bound to have its share of politicking -- we just wanted no part of any of it. (I deal with enough politicking at were and have no interest in dealing with it on my days off.)

Of course, within weeks, we felt the whipping pull of the whirlpool eddies trying to draw us in. We were reliable, smart, talented, and willing to help. We said yes to some things and no to others, which seemed to stir things up as well. The more we worked there, the more we were asked to do, which was fine, providing our needs and expectations were taken into account and agreements were honored.

Long story short, Bonn is still volunteering there every Saturday. I fully support her decision and am happy she's doing what she wants and needs to do there.

As for me, I'm taking an indefinite hiatus from the place. I'll miss seeing the animals as often as I have, but I'm not willing to give my time and energy to any one or any place that will knowingly try to mislead and take advantage of my limited time and resources. (Yes, this is intentionally vague.)

It's frustrating, but I'm comfortable with my decision. My Saturdays of late have been spent sleeping in (!) and making/canning orange marmalade. I'm even thinking of entering some in this year's State Fair.

In the coming weeks/months I'll be looking into working with the county's literacy agency. In the meantime, I'll enjoy my time off.

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