a note from the Nolts
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a note from the Nolts |
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Are You a "Keymaker?"
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Some people see
a closed door and turn away. Others see a closed door, try the knob,if it doesn't open . . .they turn away. Still others see a closed door, try the knob,if it doesn't open,they find a key.If the key doesn't fit . . . they turn away. A rare few see a closed door, try the knob,if it doesn't open,they find a key. If the key doesn't fit . . .they make one. |
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Therapeutic horseback riding
affords many opportunities to test your skills at various tasks and at
different levels. You become acutely attuned to the needs of both man
and horse as they intercommunicate. Webster offers the following
definitions of communicate: "to transmit information, thought, or
feeling so that it is satisfactorily received or understood."
Communication is defined as "a process by which information is exchanged
between individuals through a common system of symbols, signs or behavior."
Involvement in therapeutic horseback riding grants you an insight into
exchanges, "communication," in many ways. The therapeutic riding instructor is challenged to be a "Keymaker." Communicating to people who are physically and or mentally challenged requires fine tuned skills. You must use all tools available to achieve the goals prescribed for your rider. In turn, the basic tool at your disposal is your therapeutic riding horse. Here again, your "keymaking" abilities are required. Volunteers and therapeutic riding program supporters are a vital link to making the exchange effective. They are an integral part of the team effort of communication. It takes a special ingredient to give unselfishly of your time and talents to help others achieve their goals. All who step into the volunteer pool are rewarded beyond measure and have a special story to share. No matter what your area of involvement, interest, or expertise may be, you are faced with the challenges of effective communication. We have all heard it said, "Communication is the key." Are you a "Keymaker?" -Ben H. Nolt, Jr. |
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photo courtesy Fritz Fichtner, CATRA volunteer |
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