The Joy of 4-H – Past Lessons Learned
Without 4-H, I would not have had a chance to learn how to sew, how to knit, or how to identify seeds and plants. I would not have waited on a supper with an international theme, to raise money for trips. I would not have played my guitar before an audience, or worn a two piece bathing suit in a fashion show (those were the days), or participated in a Can-Can line, in a rented costume. Without 4-H, I would not have had a senior mentor who taught me all about houseplants and gave me “slips” of plants, whenever I visited her. I was so fond of her, one day I walked 3 miles, to the center of town, where she lived. Fortunately, I got a ride home.
Without 4-H, I would not have had the chance to visit Washington, D.C., racing to the top. I would not have enjoyed the Smithsonian Institution, with all of its dinosaurs and other bony artifacts. I would not have gone to the Washington Zoo, and been able to see Polar Bears, for the first time.
Some people have memories of Girl Scouts. Living in a rural community, I forged my early relationships with other 4-H members. There was a camaraderie among those who were Jr. Leaders. Another fun group was the Horsemanship Club.
My hometown encouraged 4-H activities, and then, there were also County events. I remember the outfit I wore to a County Dress Revue. It consisted of a white blouse with a stand-up collar and bell shaped sleeves with lace trim, worn under a green (was it a light weight wool?) jumper, with a square neck, and two pockets.
None of what I achieved in 4-H would have been possible without adult mentors. Some of the items we made were entered into the local agricultural fair in town. Somewhere in this house, I have a stack of blue ribbons that were won for “most creative floral arrangement,” “horsemanship,” “white bantam chickens,” etc. I have to smile when I recall the fun of my youth, as I was introduced to wholesome activities that have been friends throughout my lifetime. Here’s to 4-H and all that it does for young people, and moreover, here’s to the adults who teach, guide, and oversee, and make it possible to learn lessons whose effect is everlasting.
Patricia Cummings
