When I first arrived at Mustard seed I was rather nervous. That’s why when I met Brett I decided to sit beside him. He was quiet like I was. So I sat down beside him and noticed that he was carrying large headphones and his phone in his hand. Maybe it was a comforting to him I pondered. Later I would find out that Brett is not a fan of loud noises. Which is why a barn filled with people talking had made him quiet.

I don’t remember really how the tradition started. All I know is after that first day Brett and I would go on walks through the wood and pastures every Wednesday morning. He wasn’t very interested in the horses but he was interested in Superheroes. Thankfully, that was something I could relate to. Around other people and loud noises Brett was quiet, but one on one with the topic of captain America and Batman he was different. He wanted to tell all about the movies he had seen and the comics he had read. He went from a silent unsmiling teen to one who talked nonstop and wore a big grin on his face while on our walks.

Over time I began to see a different teen. He opened up to me more and more about his struggles and joys. This made what we do at Mustard Seed all the more real to me. I could see the fruits of what we were doing. Eventually, Brett even agreed to brush one of the miniature ponies and a bigger horse. As long as he got to go in a walk after that is. Because of Mustard Seed Brett was becoming more comfortable with people in general and more confident. He became to talk with more people besides just me.

Over all this experience encouraged me, made me more confident, and fulfilled me like no other activity I have ever taken part in.

Caroline Joiner
Volunteer

5/10/2019