Final Thoughts on Kuterevo

The Bears…
8 bears in the refuge with the oldest Bruno, my favorite. He’s tired but still loves to play, eat, and chase Matija. The youngest, Matija, grabs food when he can and plays with sticks like a child. The only female, Mlada Gora, struts around at ease and is the smallest and cutest of all, shying away from Mladi Dol, the dominant one. Marko Kralj looks for food as he bathes in the sun. Ljubo Lik, Blago Zoo, and Vlad Mir rule the top of the complex as they forage for food while occasionally interacting with each other.

The Refuge…
What a place! A refuge for bears as well as for humans. The quiet solitude of this place offers a sanctuary for all. Co-existence is the key as we learn how to work together in harmony. Whether it be in picking plums, gathering fruit, moving branches, packing bread or honey or cooking meals. Getting to know volunteers and visitors from around the world, if we embrace it, enhances our lives. The work is hard, but the benefits are many.

The Learning…
I learned about the compassion of people as visitors from around the world thanked me for what we were doing. Some even shed tears. I was surprised at the immense impact this place has on visitors as well as volunteers. This place is more than just about the bears. It’s about animal to human, human to human and human to nature relationships. I am in awe at the vast respect and learning we can gain from one another as we exist and manage together. 

The Thanks…
I appreciate the nice lodging provided to me with the warm shower, cozy bed and friendly host.
The meals were great and prepared by all. Many creative things cooked out of carrots, onions, garlic, other vegetables, eggs, flour, milk, pasta, rice and cheese as well as various local fruits. It was interesting that the various personalities were displayed in what we cooked. Visits to the nearby bar provided more socialization and relaxation. 

Final Thoughts…
This experience is not for the faint of heart. One must be able to work hard and endure rudimentary conditions (i.e, no running hot water in the volunteer station, compost toilets, etc.).  Anyone can do it as long as they have a willing spirit.  It is hard work, but working with people from around the world makes everything better.  We develop bonds as we share the load.  All for the benefit of the bears.  Many days working in the shop forced me to greet people and communicate even if I couldn’t speak their language.  To my amazement, I could do it.  That is one reason for the rule to keep your hands out of your pockets.  Hands help you to communicate.  I truly enjoyed meeting people from around the world. 
This experience of volunteering at this refuge has been nothing but amazing.  Yes, hard work, but worthwhile as I learned to connect with other people, the animals, and nature. 
We need to recognize the oneness of this earth and do what we can to make it a better place for all.  Even if only for a few days, this experience can enhance your outlook on life.  Practice frugality, learn compassion, and express kindness as you navigate throughout life.  People and experiences pass through our lives, but they may make impacts that can last a lifetime or more.  Meet new people and try new experiences. Expand your horizons to continue an awesome life.  May the bear spirit follow you wherever you go.