Over a one week period I took care of cows at the nearest Cow protection center.

L1.Identify own strengths and develop areas for growth

I was always passionate about animals. I always believed that even if someone or something could not speak or express themselves, they still have basic rights, a specific list of needs and they are  worthy of care and love. I believe during this CAS experience this part of me was further brought to the surface and given much greater attention. The area of which I need improvement is to not be affected by my surroundings. When I was working in the center I came across a lot of things which I personally consider gross or disgusting, these things were the smell, cow dunk, and even milking. I understand that I must build a stronger immunity to these kinds of things.

L2. Demonstrate that challenges have been undertaken, developing new skills

I faced various challenges during my time at the center. The first was as mentioned before were the things that once grossed me out. Undertaking this challenge of cow care allowed me to get a better hold of my body. This means that I have a greater degree of control over how my body might react. I believe this skill is very useful as sometimes how our body reacts can be deeply insulting and disrespectful, so keeping that under check is very important.

L3. Initiate and plan a CAS experience

Initiated and planned this CAS experience by working under a strict schedule that was suited to the cows’ needs, this meant waking up at 5 to go for a wake with the cows, or always be punctual with their feeding and washing them in the evening. Although I was just a volunteer I still sticked to the great schedule of the cows.

L4. Show perseverance and commitment in CAS experience

I believe there is no greater show of perseverance than still staying in the program after my body disagreed. The amount of animal waste and the smells was unbearable yet a growing acceptance of that allowed me to stay there for the time that was initially intended. This showed great commitment and perseverance by myself 

L7. Recognize and consider the ethics of choices and actions

Although this was not in my initial plan, I came across a new thought and new discovery. I found that the amount of care and nurturing we do to animals is not equal to the care and nurturing we show to people. If we share our love to humans we can further grow as a race and progress into a new era of acceptance and love. This ethical dilemma has entered my mind due to this experience and I consider it a gift that would allow me to further build on how I want my life to be.