For Pet's Sake Column

Like many of you, I usher in the new year by penning a lengthy list of resolutions – some I keep and some that eventually fall by the wayside. For me, my goals usually include activities that will benefit my health and further my writing career. For instance, I have set an intention of boosting my immune system by eating healthier foods and drinking soothing teas, rather than slurping my much-loved, adrenaline-inducing lattes. Perhaps more imperative than tempting myself with tofu and tea, however, I have vowed to continue my crusade of raising awareness about the importance of compassion and respect for all the animals with whom we share the planet. I have recommitted myself to my work with All for Animals, Inc. (www.allforanimals.com), the non-profit organization I founded ten years ago today. AFA has afforded me a voice – through television, radio, newspapers, and the Internet – to speak on behalf of abused and neglected animals who cannot speak for themselves.

As an ardent animal lover, I am surprised when people pose an all-too-common question to me: “Why are you always helping animals when there are so many people who need assistance?” I respond by sharing my belief that all beings are interconnected with one another. Wouldn’t it make sense then, I ask, that we would choose to protect, respect, and honor ALL life, whether it is human or animal?

To illustrate my point, let me tell you about my recent foster kitten experience. For two months this summer, I spent a good deal of time and energy caring for a stray cat and her five adorable offspring. The experience was extremely gratifying for me and one I hope to repeat in the near future. When it was time for the kittens to begin new lives in their forever homes, I interviewed Ruth, an 84-year-old lady who expressed an interest in adopting little Romeo and Serena. Ruth had lost her husband just six months prior and felt the kittens would help ease her loneliness and despair. I admit that I was a little worried about the elderly woman’s ability to care for two rambunctious kittens, but Ruth assured me that her son and granddaughter would be stopping by often to check on them. Now, several months later, Ruth says there isn’t a day that goes by that she doesn’t feel an immense love and appreciation for her feline family.

Success stories such as these inspire me to continue speaking and writing about the power of the human/animal bond. It is my hope that one day we will realize animals are an integral part of our own health and happiness. No longer will we find it necessary to choose between helping a person and helping an animal in need, for they are both worthy of our time and financial resources.

It is a new day…..a new year…. and with it comes endless possibilities. May 2007 bring forth a profoundly deeper connection among ALL creatures.

What are your New Year's resolutions? Send your responses to Karen at karenleestevens@cox.net.