Happy Holidays & Merry Christmas To All From Zuma’s Rescue Ranch

Photo Courtesy of Robyn Beck

In this Photo Drew and Denver Newell

Baby Spice, Houston and Willy

Say Happy Holidays! In French: Joyeuses Fêtes!

Say Happy Holidays! In Spanish: Felices Fiestas!

Say Happy Holidays! In Swedish: Trevlig Helg!

Say Happy Holidays! In Portuguese: Boas Festas!

Say Happy Holidays! In Turkish: Mutlu Bayramlar!

Say Happy Holidays! In Romanian: Sarbatori Fericite!

Say Happy Holidays! In Mandarin: Jie Ri Yu Kuai

Say Happy Holidays! In Catalan: Bones Festes!

Say Happy Holidays! In Japanese: Tanoshii kurisumasu wo! (Have a happy Christmas)

Say Happy Holidays! In Italian: Buone Feste!

Say Happy Holidays! In South African (Xhose): Ii holide eximnandi

Say Happy Holidays! In German: Forhe Feiertage

Say Happy Holidays! In Dutch: Prettige feestdagen

Say Happy Holidays! In Hawaiian: Hau’oli Lanui (pronounced how-oh-lay la-new-ee)

Say Happy Holidays! In Gaelic: Beannachtaí na Féile

Say Happy Holidays! In Slovenian: Vesele Praznike

Say Happy Holidays! In Indonesian: Selamat Hari Raya!

Say Happy Holidays! In Croatian: Sretni praznici!

Saying Happy Holidays in different languages isn’t always easy because the English word ‘holiday’ has a literal translation of a vacation or day off in most parts of the world. It’s also important to note that many countries celebrate the holidays right on through Epiphany on January 6, so you can get away with saying or sending holiday greetings for a few days after the calendar New Year.

Simpson Housing Volunteer Day at Zuma’s

Simpson Housings’ Largest Group of Employees at the Same Volunteer Effort in their History!

Zuma’s

23 people from Simpson Housing spent a day at Zuma’s helping clean the rafters! This was a hearty group of volunteers not afraid to get dirty, they literally hung from the rafters at Zuma’s to clean 6 months of dirt off the walls.

If not for the generosity of people like Simpson Housing management, big jobs at non-profits would rarely get done. For non-profits never have enough staff to complete all of the tasks on a day to day basis.

In addition to all of the cleaning….. these folks proved to be quite artistic and produced nearly 20 “Zuma’s Luck” for us to sell at Murdochs. Zuma’s Luck is one of Zuma’s fund raising opportunities. If you have an interest in supporting our mission at Zuma’s click the donate page.

Zuma’s Dream began as a quest for a better way for at risk youth and horses

Zuma’s

Photo Courtesy Robyn Beck

Today the dream, Zuma’s Rescue Ranch exists largely due to the two dedicated founders Jodi and Paul Messenich.The couple have dedicated their once profitable multi- million dollar equestrian center to serve the needs of at risk youth and horses. This heart job comes with a substantial price tag, every year the pair spend close to $200,00 of their retirement to fund as well as work 7 days per week to keep the mission at Zuma’s alive.

Zuma’s is designed to prevent at risk youth from slipping through the cracks of society, while simultaneously saving horses destined for slaughter.

According to the National Social Services Organization, roughly 80% of the worlds current prison inmates were former foster children. This is a clear sign that the current system is not working.

Add to that, a country that turns a blind eye to and estimated 450,000 horses sent to foreign Countries to be brutally slaughtered. Something is terribly wrong with this picture.

Zuma’s rescues those horses from slaughter and pairs them with at risk children in a therapeutic setting designed to heal both mind and spirit of horse and child.

Our system is having dramatic effects on the children’s lives fortunate enough to partake in our programs.

In 2009 Zuma’s helped more than 30 families and rescued 20+ horses. We would like to do more in 2010 but we need your help.

Zuma’s needs funding to further our mission.

The bottom line at Zuma’s is hitting a low point and if something doesn’t change drastically soon, the funds bolstering the operation will run out. It has been such a great first year at Zuma’s that the belief is funding is just around the corner….2009 brought in nearly $45,000 in donations which is excellent for a first year non-profit, we hope to double that in 2010 as well as make a big dent in the four million dollar endowment necessary for sustainable funding.

If you have ties to some of the following needs listed below please contact Zuma’s and make the connections: 303-346-7493

• Endowment Funds from folks needing a great tax deduction $500.00-$100,000 levels available
• Monthly fiscal commitments from community members – sustainable funding source  Example, I will donate $25.00 per month to Zuma’s
• Consistent labor donations- Example, I will help out at Zuma’s every Monday 7-10am
• Event Venue Donations- Auditoriums, concert venues, Donated spaces for fund-raising events
• Program Sponsors Example, I will sponsor a new child’s six-week therapy program ($220 each session)
• Horse Sponsor, Example I will provide funds and care for one rescue horse for the year ($2,500)

As you can see from our $200,000 annual operating expense at Zuma’s, we would only need $547.00 per day in donations. That is only 700 people to commit to .83c  donation per day, or $25.00 a month charitable contribution to Zuma’s.

Won’t you recruit 10 people to commit .83 cents per day to Zuma’s mission? If we all recruit 10 people to set up an auto pay to Zuma’s for $25.00 per month ($300) per year, the operation funds are met and countless children and their families will have access to the wonderful effective experiential therapy.

Please start your recruiting today:

My commitment to Zuma’s

I ____________________________ commit to drafting 10 friends and family to support at $25.00 per month to the mission at Zuma’s.

_______________________________ _________________

signature                                                                    Date

Here are my 10 recruits

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Print today’s blog and send in your commitment to:  fax 720-344-8971 or email info@zumasrescueranch.com

Please Donate to Zuma’s!

Help us change the lives of those once destine for despair.

Forgiveness~

Forgiveness Embrace Photo courtesy of Robyn Beck

Forgiving and Letting Go

People make mistakes, what ever the reason for the breach of trust in a relationship, the best way to begin healing is to accept an apology and begin the forgiving process.

Forgiveness takes time, relationships were not built-in a day and the forgiving process will not happen in a day either. In many ways the broken relationship will be beginning a new, and given all the time necessary for the victim to rebuild trust in that person.

At Zuma’s we see horses forgive humans every day. As we are learning the language of equus we make mistakes that challenge the horses trust in us…..In short order horses forgive our trespass, and we learn the art of forgiving from our four-legged friends.

Sometimes in life dealing with the human language is more difficult, we humans are more shadowed in our actions and much more difficult to read that the black and white communication of horses.

The ugly truth is always better than a beautiful lie, a quote from a good friend rings so true. Honesty IS always the best policy.

Below are some thoughts from a ph.D on the subject, read and embrace the art of forgiveness for you own well-being.

What is forgiveness?

by; Katherine Piderman, Ph.D.

Generally, forgiveness is a decision to let go of resentment and thoughts of revenge. The act that hurt or offended you may always remain a part of your life, but forgiveness can lessen its grip on you and help you focus on other, positive parts of your life. Forgiveness can even lead to feelings of understanding, empathy and compassion for the one who hurt you.

Forgiveness doesn’t mean that you deny the other person’s responsibility for hurting you, and it doesn’t minimize or justify the wrong. You can forgive the person without excusing the act. Forgiveness brings a kind of peace that helps you go on with life.

What are the benefits of forgiving someone?

Letting go of grudges and bitterness makes way for compassion, kindness and peace. Forgiveness can lead to:

• Healthier relationships
• Greater spiritual and psychological well-being
• Less stress and hostility
• Lower blood pressure
• Fewer symptoms of depression, anxiety and chronic pain
• Lower risk of alcohol and substance abuse

Why is it so easy to hold a grudge?

When you’re hurt by someone you love and trust, you may become angry, sad or confused. If you dwell on hurtful events or situations, grudges filled with resentment, vengeance and hostility may take root. If you allow negative feelings to crowd out positive feelings, you may find yourself swallowed up by your own bitterness or sense of injustice.

What are the effects of holding a grudge?

If you’re unforgiving, you may pay the price repeatedly by bringing anger and bitterness into every relationship and new experience. Your life may become so wrapped up in the wrong that you can’t enjoy the present. You may become depressed or anxious. You may feel that your life lacks meaning or purpose, or that you’re at odds with your spiritual beliefs. You may lose valuable and enriching connectedness with others.

How do I reach a state of forgiveness?

Forgiveness is a commitment to a process of change. A way to begin is by recognizing the value of forgiveness and its importance in your life at a given time. Then reflect on the facts of the situation, how you’ve reacted, and how this combination has affected your life, health and well-being. When you’re ready, actively choose to forgive the person who’s offended you. Move away from your role as victim and release the control and power the offending person and situation have had in your life. As you let go of grudges, you’ll no longer define your life by how you’ve been hurt. You may even find compassion and understanding.

What happens if I can’t forgive someone?

Forgiveness can be challenging. It may be particularly hard to forgive someone who doesn’t admit wrong or doesn’t speak of his or her sorrow. If you find yourself stuck, it may help to write in a journal, pray or use guided meditation. You may want to talk with a person you’ve found to be wise and compassionate, such as a spiritual leader, a mental health provider, or an unbiased family member or friend. You may also want to reflect on times you’ve hurt others and on those who’ve forgiven you. Keep in mind that forgiveness has the potential to increase your sense of integrity, peace and overall well-being.

Does forgiveness guarantee reconciliation?

If the hurtful event involved someone whose relationship you otherwise value, forgiveness may lead to reconciliation. This isn’t always the case, however. Reconciliation may be impossible if the offender has died or is unwilling to communicate with you. In other cases, reconciliation may not be appropriate, especially if you were attacked or assaulted. But even in those cases, forgiveness is still possible — even if reconciliation isn’t.

What if I have to interact with the person who hurt me but I don’t want to?

If you haven’t reached a state of forgiveness, being near the person who hurt you may be tense and stressful. To handle these situations, remember that you have a choice whether or not to attend specific functions and gatherings. Respect yourself and do what seems best. If you choose to attend, don’t be surprised by a certain amount of awkwardness and perhaps even more intense feelings. Do your best to keep an open heart and mind. You may find that the gathering helps you to move forward with forgiveness.

What if the person I’m forgiving doesn’t change?

Getting another person to change his or her actions, behavior or words isn’t the point of forgiveness. Think of forgiveness more about how it can change your life — by bringing you more peace, happiness, and emotional and spiritual healing. Forgiveness takes away the power the other person continues to wield in your life.

What if I’m the one who needs forgiveness?

Consider admitting the wrong you’ve done to those you’ve harmed, speaking of your sincere sorrow or regret, and specifically asking for forgiveness — without making excuses. Remember, however, you can’t force someone to forgive you. Others need to move to forgiveness in their own time. Simply acknowledge your faults and admit your mistakes. Then commit to treating others with compassion, empathy and respect.

Truth~

Japanese Symbol for Truth

“We tell lies when we are afraid….afraid of what we don’t know, afraid of what others will think, afraid of what will be found out about us. But every time we tell a lie, the thing that we fear grows stronger”. ~ Tad Williams

Lies come from within they are not provoked, lies come from a weakness of our character. Most often the blame for lies are easily placed on someone else. One truly in charge of their lives do not place blame where it does not belong.It would seem the first step into truth is to accept responsibility for ourselves with no blame.

Of the many many lies we deal with these days; we as a society need trust for, each lie invokes lack and fear both of which are empty emotions.

Let’s as a nation practice truth in the last couple of weeks of 2009 so that 2010 will be met with “Have” and “Confidence” by choosing truth in 2010. This would be a wonderful new years resolution for our world.

Here are some truths about lies:

A lie may take care of the present, but it has no future. ~ unknown author

The Truth needs no rehearsal. ~ Barbara Kingsolver

Every lie has a consequence…..you cannot escape that.
~  Gary King

This above all; to thine own self be true. ~ William Shakespeare

Love must begin with truth ~unknown author

Quote from a Zuma Volunteer

I am sure every volunteer comes with a story of why they are touched by Zuma’s mission…But I wanted you to know that I had chills, as well as tears, reading your website and knew I had to help. I hold adoption very close to my heart and horses have helped me heal personally, in so many ways. I am just amazed at what you have accomplished thus far and it would be an honor to volunteer whenever I can.
Courtney Will

Meet The Dogs of Zuma’s

One big happy family

At Zuma’s we are all one big happy family and that includes our beloved ranch dogs.  Meet Sophie, our ambassador at Zuma’s and most often the first smiling face (and wagging tail) you’ll see upon entering our gates.

Sophie is a fox hound mix is a rescue from the Denver Dumb Friends League,  (http://www.ddfl.org/).   She makes every effort to greet all of our volunteers upon arrival in her own unique style.  She loves all two-legged and four-legged creatures and is in heaven while scampering free across the pastures and paddocks.

Meet Natasha, the resident princess.   Natasha is a Jack Russell Terrier and her job at Zuma’s is to find mice and to let everyone know she’s around.  If you see her shivering while prancing about the snow following her owner Amanda, feel free to pick her up and give her paws a break. She loves hugs but watch out for the kisses you’ll get in return!

Here on the right, is Payton, she doesn’t make too many appearances at the barn due to her lack of horse skills, Payton just loves the horses a bit too much making then a bit nervous. If you visit the ranch and want to see the Bull Dogs they will be found in the business office in the arena building.

This big beautiful guy is Baxter, he too lacks the horse skills necessary to be loose around the horses, just loves a little too much. Baxter and Payton take turns coming to the barn so any given day you will find one of the Bull Dogs hanging out in the business office at Zuma’s.

Bull Dogs provide a wealth of entertainment with their charismatic personalities, worth the visit to Zuma’s Business Office.

Support Zumas’ Mission with every email you send

You can support the Ranch by adding the picture and text below to your email signature. Copy and paste it into your signature for all outgoing emails, and become part of our Mission by spreading our name to everyone in your circle of contacts. Send us an email (info@zumasrescueranch.com) and let us know you’ve joined the mission! Thanks for your support!

If you have and interest in donating to support the Mission at Zuma’s please visit our donate page.

Zuma’s Rescue Ranch supports foster children and rescued horses so that they can help one another heal the wounds in their hearts and minds. At the Ranch, horses who were destined for slaughter are rescued, rehabilitated, and trained, so that they can help children who have been similarly discarded by our failing system in equine-assisted psychotherapy sessions. To learn more and find out how you can help, please email Jodi Messenich (Jodi@zumasrescueranch.com) or visit http://www.zumasrescueranch.com or http://zumasrescueranch.wordpress.com today.  Zuma’s is an approved 501(c)3 non-profit organization. Your donations are tax-deductible.  Please support these children and horses. Lives are not disposable.

Open letter to Legislators from HOOFPAC

For Christmas This year how about we all Send a letter to Congress Asking them to Pass:

HR 503 and SB 727

Stop Sending Horses to Slaughter!

Below is an open letter to Legislators from HOOFPAC:

To All Concerned Parties:

The horse is part of American heritage, having played a major role in our historical growth and development. Post industrial revolution, the number of horses has surprisingly increased contributing significantly to the enjoyment of generations of recreation enthusiasts in America.

Generations ago, our forefathers designated the horse a “favored” animal which means they are not bred or raised for food, not eaten in our culture, commonly given a name and accordingly are taxed differently than traditional food animals.

Zuma’s Has a Request For Proposal from Kenneth Kendall King Foundation

After receiving a $5,000.00 grant from Harmes C. Fishback this month; Zuma’s now will be presenting a proposal to the Kenneth Kendall King Foundation for $8,200.00. If won, this grant will be sponsoring children into our Experiential Learning Program. This is big news for a non-profit in its first year, proving oneself to the foundation world is quite a challenge.

Horsin Around is one of many programs available to at risk youth at Zuma’s, by providing experiential learning opportunities we are quickly beginning to prove them more effective. Zuma’s is busy tracking all data and results of the programs as proof positive of their success.

Zuma’s provides sponsorship for low-income families in need of therapies outside of those approved by insurance companies and Medicaid, if you would like to sponsor a child’s therapeutic learning opportunities at Zuma’s, click our donate page.