Oakland Zoo apprenticeship update
A Mixed Bag
The apprenticeship has been an interesting mix of fulfillment and challenges. On the one hand, I’ve really enjoyed working with and being in close proximity to the animals. On the other hand, zookeeping is physically demanding. I’m constantly on my feet, cleaning, feeding, herding, moving hay and straw, and in general, going non-stop all day long. I come home with little energy to do much else.
This particular apprenticeship program is suited for those who are looking to gain first-hand experience of zookeeping, and ultimately, a career change. These first few weeks have made me realize that I do not wish to become a zookeeper. (I really do enjoy making websites!)
If anything, I’ve gained an appreciation for what zoos and their keepers do for the animals. It’s not easy making a living as a zookeeper in the Bay Area, and certainly, most who work at the zoo do not do this for the money. These keepers are following their calling - their path in life. I’m all for that!
Finding balance has been difficult
Since starting my apprenticeship almost 4 weeks ago, juggling responsibilities for my various activities has been challenging. I work at a “regular job” 4 days a week. My freelance work continues to grow and I find it necessary to spend evenings and weekends focusing on these projects. And, up until recently I was putting in 16 hours per week at the zoo.
I’m not superwoman nor do I want to be. I was forced to look at my responsibilities and prioritize, especially because I was no longer enjoying much of anything. In essence, I was juggling 3 jobs. I had to look very closely at my goals and found that having a balanced life was very important.
I have since made arrangements to cut my apprenticeship time to 8 hours per week, with an increase in the overall duration of time that I am at the zoo. Life feels more sane!
February 4th, 2007 at 9:28 pm
So Trish, I just did a review of the usual blogs I read, which now includes yours. First off, your water buffalo link was such a gift that I forwarded it to those I who know will get a lot out of it, so thanks much for that. This most recent post of yours about having 3 jobs reminds me of what my Reiki teache r told me. Our exercise was to write one Intention in an index card, upon which we are to give Reiki energy to it, and the point that the Intention or goal was to be short and to the point. I raised my hand and asked if I could have multiple desires since, you know, I’m just that kind of person. I want to do/have them all. He looked at me and said, “Theresa, you can’t row two boats at the same time.” I think about that sentence a lot, and was reminded of that again with your post. We have many fires, but we have one strongest fire. Am I feeding my biggest fire often, or do I run away when it gets hard? (my answer: no to the first, yes to the second). I thought of that when it comes to you. When is it running away, and when is it just being in the state of receiving? When should the door close, and when should it be wide open? I myself am learning these days that when I think the lesson is about balance (lateral), it’s really about digging deep (vertical), when there are no teachers and there is only the loneliness of guarding the furnace. Well anyway, keep up with your beautiful journey. - X O X O
February 4th, 2007 at 9:48 pm
Hey Trix,
Your Reiki teacher is wise. It feels very much like I’m rowing many boats right now. The lesson in all this is that I am feeling a stronger flame come up from all the little fires I’ve started. It’s that strongest fire that I’m following right now - or at least I’m attempting to.
Trish