Reverence for Life…
Reverence for Life…
“Hear our humble prayer, O God, for our friends the Animals, especially for animals who are suffering: for animals that are over-worked, under-fed and cruelly treated: for all wistful creatures in captivity that beat their wings against bars: for any that are hunted or lost or frightened or hungry: for all that must be put to death.
“We entreat for them all Thy mercy and pity, and for those who deal with them we ask a heart of compassion and gentle hands and kindly words. Make us, ourselves, to be true friends to animals and so to share the blessings of the merciful.”
Dr. Albert Schweitzer
During the chaos of the 9/11 attacks, where almost 3,000 people died, nearly 100 loyal search and rescue dogs and their brave owners scoured Ground Zero for survivors. Now, ten years on, just 12 of these heroic canines survive, and they have been commemorated in a touching series of portraits entitled Retrieved. The dogs worked tirelessly to search for anyone trapped alive in the rubble, along with countless emergency service workers and members of the public.
Love is love. Rescued Seal. Cape Fur Seal, South Africa. “So what do you do with those who have no parents, the abandoned, the weak, those who would be dead if not rescued; you give them what they need, you treat them like a seal wants to be treated, you touch, you nurture.” ~ Coenrad J Morgan SEAL ALERT
“Sorry my Pit Bull went against your stereotypes and licked your face instead of biting you.”
Traer Scott’s portraits of shelter dogs. Such a beautiful gray muzzle. Senior dogs are such special blessings in your life. Don’t forget them when you go to adopt a dog.. they will love you with all their hearts!
“The more I learn about people, the more I like my dog.” — Mark Twain
“Not to hurt the creatures brethren is our first duty to them, but our higher mission is to be of service to them wherever they require it.” ~St. Francis of Assisi, Patron Saint of Animals
For some reason the computer I’m on right now doesn’t let me Like your post but if I could I would Like it a thousand times.
Have you ever seen some sweet animal moment like in any of these pictures. I remember Mother’s Day I guess 2 1/2 years ago at this point driving to my mom’s and there was a mama Canadian goose walking with all her babies. The mama managed to climb over the curb but a lot of the babies were having trouble. They climbed on top of each other and helped one another over. Eventually it got down to the last few and they couldn’t get over. Some woman got out of her car and started helping them. I thought it was sweet especially on Mother’s Day that one mom was probably helping out another. I just hope the mama goose went against her nature and didn’t disown the babies that were helped.
Awww… that’s so great to see. I love geese. I guess they’re actually quite stupid or silly, as the saying goes – we have a lot around here. They walk right into the middle of busy streets. It’s so sad. They’re monogamous. They “marry” for life.
The local Catholic church around here has a St Francis Mass every year when people bring their pets to be blessed. I’ve never gone (because I’ve no idea when the date is, and, I forget to look and only remember when I read about it later in the paper), but, wouldn’t that be a lovely thing? The reports say the pets are well behaved and everyone has a good time.
DC approved of this message from you.
That’s so sweet! I’d love to see that. I’m glad DC approved this message. I wish DC could have run for president – I’d vote for him in a heart beat. (Probably some of the owners could use the blessings more – just sayin.)
Animals are truly the best creatures in all the land. We as humans have learned so much from them. They are so pure. Anyone who hates animals is not a real person in my books.
I can’t wait to get a pup so it can be my friend.
I was just thinking of this friend who always treated her dogs like crap and how she didn’t deserve to have them. I’m so sensitive I’d never want an animal because I’d be devastated when they passed. Saw one of those tear-jerking commercials about abused animals for adoption the other day — of course I quickly turned the channel as a lot of people do. I can’t deal with the idea of people messing with animals. I can’t even hurt mice — as you might have seen from my posts.
Sandee, you are a kind soul. I’m sensitive like that, too. I have to turn the channel when ever those commercials come on or it ruins my day. I’ve actually gotten more sensitive as I’ve gotten older – I’m at the point where I can’t even kill insects. I carry them outside. The mice… I was going to put a picture up of one. Anything that’s alive, that can be hurt, I’m gonna do what I can to rescue. Lily’s the same way.
*I’m loving your book. Not finished yet cause someone made an offer on my house and now I’m all frantic packing. I haven’t been able to do anything fun. I only wish I could attend one of your readings. The stories are so vulnerable, in a way. You’re very brave for putting it all down. I guess if I had your talent I might consider it.
Enjoy the rest of your weekend! xox
When you mentioned not hurting insects my first thought was that I’m not that sensitive yet, but then I realized I may be a bit like that with bugs too — I’m still scared of waterbugs though.
Congratulations on your closing! This is great news, really. Now good luck on all that packing. Soon it’ll all be in the past.
I’m so glad you’re enjoying my book. I did indeed feel vulnerable after the reading because the stories are very personal. Some are completely made up, but others are fictionalized accounts of my life.
Thanks again for your support Lisa!
This moving business is just about as stressful as anything can get. Thanks for your enthusiasm. The deal can still fall apart so I’m just taking it one day at a time.
Good to know that some stories are completely made up and others are fictionalized. I think it’s best to write what you know – your life is unique and your perspective is both funny and intelligent. Your observations crack me up. Hope you’re working on your next book, lady. You’ve got a gift. 😉
Such a sweet, sweet post. Love these photos.
Every once in awhile it’s nice to dedicate a post to our friends, the animals. I figure that if somebody stumbles onto it, maybe they’ll be moved to be a little kinder or they’ll change their attitude.
Thanks Dawn.
True that.
I loved this SO much! I wish there was a “Love” button in addition to a “like” button. Consider it pressed!
I especially loved the smiling pit bull, the golden wrapped up in plaid and the golden getting a piggy back ride. But truly enjoyed it all, and your quotes and prayer were perfect.
From one animal lover to another, thanks for a beautiful post! ~ Christy
I’m so glad you like it!! I’m also happy that there are people like you in the world- tender hearted, animal lovers. It gives me comfort. 🙂
Lisa
🙂
Lisa, I grew up with beautiful pets all around me..Dogs, cats, chickens even a goat.. Throughout my married years we never had any pets (except for a pet turtle)..He did not like pets.. The day after my ex left, my daughter’s good friend asked us if we wanted her dog Jack, a 1 yr old Shitz Zhu (sp?) Yes, we all said!! If I could capture all the love and joy that 8# doggie has brought to our home and sell it we’d be zillionaires.. Animals are precious creations and your post today made me smile and go give my doggie a big hug 🙂
Love and joy… that’s exactly what they bring, isn’t it? It’s funny how they each have a distinct personality. I think when you grow up around animals you get exposed to a deeper kind of love, some sort of pure animal energy that feels divine, for lack of a better word. Their love is pure — you can’t help but feel uplifted around them. Jack sounds like a snappy little love boy. What a sweet blessing to have that energy in your home. 🙂
The picture of the goose with her goslings really got to me. So, so sweet. B and I don’t have any pets right now but we plan on getting one when C is older, and I’m pretty sure we are going to get a little mini pig. Yes, a pig. They are the sweetest, smartest animals in the world.
My mother had a pet pig when she was little, Sweety. She always said it was the smartest, and sweetest animal she’s ever had. I also once heard about a pig rescuing their owner from some kind of life threatening situation. The pig kept going in and out of the pet door, scraping his belly each time, but ending up getting the help they needed. Such bravery and intelligence. 😦
The goose with her goslings, is there anything sweeter?
Beautiful
Indeed. 🙂
glad you appreciate the beauty!
Lisa
Ah, this was so sweet, Lisa. I loved it. The photos and your sentiments are beautiful. I love the dog’s gray muzzle. It makes me want a dog. I just have two cats and they’re wonderful creatures.
Aww… The old boy with the gray muzzle sure is sweet. He makes me want to go to the shelter and adopt a whole group of old timers. I’m in the process of moving but once I get settled that’s my plan. We’ve been in this house for 15 years and had to say goodbye to three cats and our dog, Truman, over the years. I miss them sooo much.
What are the names of your cats? You gotta love ’em with their special cat personalities! Haha! They really become members of the family, don’t they?
this was a wonderful post for me to read as I am finally home after a long day– my devil dog is laying on the couch with me. I say devil dog but if you can keep a secret– I Love this damn dog. haaa I moaned and groaned when they came home with her(I was not involved) but I secretly hug the you know what out of this animal. Sigh.. They really are unconditional..
Thanks for the warm smiles
Audra
They’re great aren’t they? So loyal and unconditional in their love and always so happy to see you. I don’t ‘get’ people that don’t love animals. What’s not to love?
Glad it warmed your heart. I need these kind of posts every once in a while.
Hope you had a great day, Audra. 😉
I love animals…but never enough to have kept a pet…hmmmm…I wonder why…
great post Lisa 🙂 Mark Twain said it!
Maybe one day you will own a pet? As with children, animals open up a new level of love in your heart. They provide so much more than they take. It’s like they’re a constant reminder of what unconditional love looks and feels like.
Hope you’re having a wonderful day/evening, Raunak. 😉
Lisa
I sure am! hope you’ve gotten over the election results 🙂
Barely. I’ve decided to leave my Mitt Romney bumper stickers on my car so that when everything goes badly, and I suspect it will, I can happily show the world that I am not responsible for the decline. haha!
that’s a good idea 🙂
This post is way more than just the sum of its parts, Lisa.
Great compilation of pictures and quotes!
Thanks, Guapo. I’m very sensitive about the vulnerability of animals and the abuse they sometimes endure. I’m the girl that carries the insects outside in a paper cup and finds a safe resting place for them. I think that sums me up, pretty well. Haha!
Hope you’re having a great weekend, my friend. 😉
That’s why I can’t eat lamb, how can you eat those cute creatures?
Exactly!
Hope you’re having a great day, Mr. Howorth.
It’s not too bad, catching up on my writing for NaNoWriMo 🙂 Just cracked 10,000 words!
The one of the retriever sleeping on his owner’s chest got me teared up right off.
Dogs are one of God’s greatests gifts to man. It always warms my heart to see other animal lovers. What a wonderful post you have!
Me too! I’m always comforted by how many wonderful people are drawn to the animal posts. It’s nice to know that there are tender hearted people all around. Thanks, Denise. 🙂
I am a confirmed, card-carrying bunny-hugger and conservationist. I have been surrounded by animals all my life. My only regret is that I didn’t have a career to do with animals!
Btw fantastic news re your house!
Thanks, Charlene. The house thing has got me stressed but also, excited. I keep thinking of the books you had me read — trying to keep my heart open to new possibilities.
As animal lovers we all have a bond, don’t we? There’s a special chamber in our heart that is always full of tenderness for God’s creatures. 🙂
Hope you’re finishing your day in a happy peaceful state, Charlene.
Lisa xoxo
Lisa, did you read them? All? PLEASE tell me what you thought? Blessings x
What a glorious post! I just love animals they are so true and genuine. You always know where you stand with an animal if you know how to listen and watch.
Very true. They’re so pure in their love.
That quote of Marc Cain – so true! Animals are so logical, so real and honest. They deserve way more respect, but luckily their situation has already improved a lot… In some parts (and households for that matter) at least. Recently, there’s been an ‘art project’ here in Belgium, and they threw cats on stairs as a part of it. That pissed me off :(. Stupid people.
Ugh! Stupid, is right. How is that art?
Hopefully with more awareness their situation will improve.
I have a very close friend who cannot go to the animal shelter because he would adopt every animal in the place. I know how he feels; I would end up doing the same thing.
I’m the same way, CaL. I’m pained by the sight of all those animals locked up in cages. If I could, and maybe one day I will, I’d take whole bunch of them home with me-especially the old timers. I’d love to give them at least a few good years of love and peace. 😉
Lisa this was beautiful. I agree with Mooselicker, I would like it a thousand times if I could. The opening prayer. Oh how beautiful. I’m going to print it out. It’s truly one of the most beautiful things I’ve ever read. And the picture of the homeless man and his dog. Ohhhh! So poignant ! One of the horses out at the stables had to be put to sleep on Sunday. It was so very sad. But it reminded me how very beautiful life is because it is oh so fleeting. And that all of us who have horses at the stables are all so lucky to have the opportunity to have spent time with that horse and all the horses. Our animals make us better people. I think they are here to teach us how to be real. And how to keep things simple. The simpler the better. They give us practice in how to open our hearts. I try to go out and see my horse as often as I possibly can. I always come away at peace with the world!
I didn’t see anyway to comment on your last comment to my comment about packing up and getting ready to leave your house. But I wanted you to know that I read it and I think that a rental in LA will be an absolutely wonderful way to start your chapter two adventure!! Beautiful weather!! So many things to do and see! There’s no better place to start the next phase of your life than in Sunny California! I love the idea of you being my new BFF State–ee! Haha!! And once you get settle into your new place you’ll be amazed how light and carefree you’ll feel. I know I did! I’m so thankful I’ve gotten to know you Lisa! Maybe even better on WP than in person! I think we were somehow connected in a previous life. 😀
I’m so glad you liked it, Linda. I’m sorry to hear the horse that had to be put down at your stable. Saying goodbye is so painful but only because, like you said, our hearts have been made fuller because of them. Life is certainly fleeting and anything that makes our life richer and more meaningful, like the love of a sweet horse, is a blessing. They do teach us how to be real, I agree. They’re so simple in their love. I’d be at the stables all the time, too. You can’t buy that feeling of peace and wellness at a store or a spa, etc. It comes from someplace deep in your heart, a connectedness to something so beautiful.
The LA thing is not perfect but since we already have a small place there it makes sense to regroup and then start scouring the coast for something more permanent. I’m looking forward to being free and living simply. Just knowing that you’ll be in my state, gives me a positive outlook. I feel the same way about you – like we have a deep connection… Thanks for being my friend, Linda!! 😀
Oh Lisa! I agree with everything you said so eloquently in this comment! And thank you for being my friend!!! 😀
I’m glad to hear you already have a little place in LA. That is going to make everything so much less complicated! And then you can regroup. Of course the hard part is going through everything and trying to figure out what to save and what to throw away! I had five boxes of memorabilia per kid for each of them to go through when all was said and done. Well, it took all three of them about 5 minutes to pick out the stuff the wanted. LOL!! Their yearbooks and gads I think that’s about it! Ha ha! All those years of lovingly putting away all their drawings, and other stuff. But then, of course, it was really for me that I saved it all. My way of bookmarking time. (Or possibly anchoring it down so it wouldn’t pass so quickly!) Anyway, I got rid of a whole garage full of stuff and vowed I would never store anything at self-storage. Which made the task of downsizing a lot easier. If there’s no place to put it, I can’t keep it. And surprise! I don’t miss a single thing I got rid of!! LOL!! The mind is such a silly instrument sometimes. Always making us think we need stuff when we don’t. HA!
Linda, you and I are mothering twins. I’ve kept every little thing, art work, trinkets, scraps of paper, you name it, that the kids touched! haha! I’ve started filling a storage unit here, in my town, with boxes. By the end of it I’ll probably have over 200 boxes! Oy!
I keep telling Lily that she and Paul need to hurry up and get a house so that she can come and collect her “things.” Poor Paul will drop over dead when he sees the amount of stuff she has.
It’s so exhausting, isn’t it? Once I’m in LA, I won’t look back. It can sit in storage for a good long time before I decide to hire a mover to bring it out.
The amount that I’ve accumulated, makes me sick. If nothing else this will be a good purging exercise and will help me find my balance – I lost that a long time ago. haha! Thanks for sharing your chapter two, moving experiences with me, Linda. They’ve been incredibly helpful. 🙂
The Gang of Five say, “Thank you.”Be encouraged!