Hello, Region 1,
Summer has been a roller coaster ride so this will be brief. I have had a few significant losses and find myself in a reflective phase. I am enjoying this poem and thought I would share:
The Guest House
by Jalaluddin Rumi
This being human is a guest house.
Every morning a new arrival.
A joy, a depression, a meanness, some momentary awareness comes as an unexpected visitor.
Welcome and entertain them all!
Even if they are a crowd of sorrows, who violently sweep your house empty of its furniture, still, treat each guest honorably.
He may be clearing you out for some new delight. The dark thought, the shame, the malice, meet them at the door laughing and invite them in.
Be grateful for whatever comes, because each has been sent as a guide from beyond.
In Region 1 news, I would like to ask you to consider if the time is right to increase your engagement with USAWE. There are several important opportunities if you have the time, passion, and skills.
Please consider an elected Board position.
The USAWE election cycle starts September 1. I didn’t understand the process until someone kindly nominated me to be your Region 1 director. Hopefully, you can be more proactive! It is an exciting time for USAWE and there are lots of opportunities to have an impact as part of the leadership team.
At a high level, here is how it works:
Between September 1 and September 15, you may nominate yourself or a USAWE member for an open position. As a Region 1 member, you are eligible to nominate for President Elect, Secretary and At-large Director 2 positions. (the Region 1 Director position is not up for election this cycle). Please visit: Election Information – USA Working Equitation (usawe.org) for more information.
Nominees will have until October 1 to accept and submit a candidate statement. Statements are posted to on October 15 and ballots are emailed out on November 1. Voting closes on November 15.
Or consider an appointed coordinator position:
There are currently two volunteer coordinator positions open. USAWE is seeking a communications coordinator (Communications Coordinator – USA Working Equitation (usawe.org)) and a volunteer coordinator (Volunteer Coordinator – USA Working Equitation (usawe.org)). The position descriptions and applications are at the links provided. Applications for both positions are due by September 1, 2024
Lastly, if you have ideas for rule changes that would improve our sport, please consider submitting a rule change. You can find the form by scrolling down to the bottom at U.S. Rules for Working Equitation – USA Working Equitation (usawe.org). Proposals for changes are due by August 31, 2024.
I hope you are all well and enjoying your summer. I hope to see many of you in September at the Western Zone Championships. Come ride, volunteer, and cheer on the competitors.
Sincerely,
Your R1 Director,
Sara
