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| How does a dog like Golden Girl end up in a shelter? |
Several years ago, when I had just entered an exhilarating
phase of my career, the pastor of my church, who was also a member of my
advisory board at work, said something I’ve never forgotten: “You are a
rescuer, Diana.”
It seems this man of the cloth saw something in me that I
had not yet discovered for myself. At
the time, Pastor M. was speaking about how I had this need to save everyone who
was struggling in life. So much of my
creative energy was invested in finding ways to help at risk youth, the illiterate,
victims of any kind of violence, or anyone who was experiencing
hopelessness. To see someone suffer
split me wide open to the core.
I said back then that I never wanted to become cynical or
callous in the face of need, for I saw so many individuals burn out over the
years and grow hardened. I suspect
caring deeply, in the face of overwhelming odds, can lead one to grow
protective layers of defense. Each of us,
in painful situations, finds our own way of coping with that which we cannot
change.
Why do I share this?
I suspect it is on my mind this morning as I reflect on the kind of
rescue in which I am primarily engaged in this season of life: animal
rescue. It is heart-breaking work that
often crushes those who give it their all.
At the same time, there are incredibly beautiful moments of fulfillment.
In attempting to save the lives of horribly abused and
neglected animals, I meet the most amazing people. Though some of them are scarred by years of
seeing things that keep them awake every single night, every rescuer, though
perhaps no longer whole in terms of peace of mind, reminds me of the goodness
that is an antidote to some of the horrors present in the world today.
I just published a review of Dogtripping by David
Rosenfelt. David and his wife, Debbie,
have saved the lives of over 4,000 dogs.
They have opened up their home to more than 300 dogs that didn’t have a
chance of survival. The animals they
rescue are headed for the kill chamber mainly because they are old or have some
type of medical need.
Thank heavens for those who choose to alleviate the
suffering of others. May we appreciate
the sacrifices made in the name of compassion and may we be the comfort in
someone’s day today.
Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”
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