Reflecting on Service Learning

            It has been about one to two weeks since completion of my service learning hours at the Calusa nature center. In reflection on my experience there, I must admit that it was rather pleasant. I did have to overcome a couple of my phobias in order to be of productive help to the works. The day started early as I arrived at 8:45 AM in the morning to offer my volunteering services. I was given two options to select from to designate how my services would be rendered. The options were helping the counselors with the summer camp kids or help with animal care. Having great interest in animals that decision was not very difficult, animals it was without thought. At that point, I made my way to the area where they house the ducks. I was really excited since I am a big fan of ducks of any kind. These ducks were so small and cute. There were 5 of them and they had energy. I ended up joining them on their terrain in order to be able to rake up and turn over their soil. This process helps bring hidden forms of food and much needed nutrients to the surface for the ducks. It did not take long for the ducks to feel somewhat comfortable before they gathered cautiously around me. After the cleaning up the ducks area I was asked to help clean the area of a huge hog named Elvis. This hog was incredibly big and extremely friendly. The workers showed me how much Elvis loves his belly to rub by them using a broom to rub his belly. He harmlessly lay down while getting is personal massage. Much of the day was just as exciting as the beginning. As one of the guides explained most of these animals have been given the opportunity for a longer life since most are there due to serious injuries they suffered. As long as I have been in this area I never realized that Calusa Nature Center was somewhat of a sanctuary for animals. The experience of volunteering has encouraged me to help support their causes in aiding injured animals who on recovery are released back into the wild. Initially I thought I was going to help offer my help, in reflecting on my experience I feel as though I needed those moments more that it needed me. I am very fortunate and grateful to have been exposed to it and plan on being part of their purpose in many other ways that are possible.