03.05.08
Did you say Horsewoman?
Oh where do we begin on this one? At the beginning…
I was laid off in January from a job I loved but which was also very unique. I know I have a lot of interviews in my future and like most people I would prefer to schedule root canals.
For those of you who have not been interviewed lately by the dreaded Human Resources person, the big trend seems to be phone interviews and the one-word description of yourself. It is like the beauty pageant question where you have to say “World Peace” to be in the top five.
Just call Q in the Human Resources department…
Well there I am on the phone with a total stranger validating myself as a worthy employee and human being when she asks, “What one word would you use to describe yourself?”
I have to admit I was tired after having gotten back late from the barn patching up “Booboos Horsey”, (a.k.a. Q) the night before. Without hesitation out of my mouth came “horsewoman”.
Dead silence from the interviewer, then a puzzled voice asked, “Did you say horsewoman?”
I knew there was only one way to go now I had committed myself in that direction so I responded, “Yes, horsewoman.” She of course wanted more elaboration so here is what I said.
“I’m a horsewoman.
When I see something that’s broken - I fix it.
If it is in the way - I move it.
If it is going to be a problem later on - I stop it from happening.
I teach others how to do things in case I am not there to do it.
Most importantly, when everything is hitting the fan I stay calm.
In a crisis or emergency I break the problem down into manageable sections and take care of it, piece by piece. I have learned that through experience.
When I think I can’t possibly get it done - I do – I find a way because I have to.
I’m a horsewoman.”
Having an existence with a horse proves a great deal about the type of person you are.
You realize you learn more from your failures than successes.
You learn that if you don’t try you’ll never get anything done.
You accept sometimes it will take many tries to get things done right.
You know doing something right is the only way to do anything.
You understand today’s challenges will be different than those of yesterday’s and tomorrow’s.
You can plan all you want but can never control everything – especially forces of nature.
You have to be able to adjust and change.
Most importantly you realize it’s best to take one gait, one jump, one horse at a time.
You have to believe in yourself and not accept something just because it is easier that way.
The interviewer wanted to schedule my next interview almost immediately.
I decided to take my own advice and told her I really appreciated the offer of a second interview but I was overqualified for the job. I thanked her for her time. She thanked me. She said she would always remember my unusual answer.
She should. It came from a horsewoman.
Thanks so much to Q L, our newest Ghost Rider, for this perfect insight!!!
Acacia said,
March 6, 2008 at 9:12 am
That was great QL :] Thanks for sending me the link and I hope you find the perfect job soon!
Becky Gilbert said,
March 6, 2008 at 10:28 am
QL, your article and version of Horsewoman is another truly uplifting story. Your ability to write is a such a gift and I hope you never give that up.
You were one of the best co workers and through that you are such a good friend. With many miles between us I know you will find that job up there.
Your work ethics are beyond words as your friendship is to me.
Quintin is a amazing horse and I hope someday all of you out there will hear
some of the stories that I have over the past few years.
Yes you are a true Horsewoman and good friend.