Regaining Perspective -- Local Sad Story, You Decide

I've been a little preoccupied lately, due to some huge changes that are taking place in my life. So I look forward to the fact that my mother usually saves me her copy of a local paper, which comes to her house free every week. This week she didn't...but she did tell me about something that happened across the street from where I live, at the local Humane Society...right under my nose. So I searched it online to find out what the fuss was about. When I read the story, it made me take pause...because a few years back I had taken a baby bird to these folks, trusting that they would see to it that the bird got to the sanctuary they spoke of taking it to when I phoned them later in the day.
Just because I am a sensitive person does not mean that the rest of the world follows suit. However, considering that human beings are supposedly the highest form of life on this planet, I seriously have to wonder what goes on in peoples' heads! If you're interested in reading the story, please visit this link. Its sad but it does have a happy ending.
http://www.explorehoward.com/news/68413/animal-shelter-director-accused-stealing/


After reading this story four or five times and feeling very reassured that 'JayJay' was now in loving hands, I thought about something that a friend once sent me in an email, which I saved for a day such as this one, when I might have good reason to pass it along to others. Print it out and hang it up if you have pets. Read it every day:




A PET'S TEN COMMANDMENTS



1. My life is likely to last 10-15 years. Any separation from you is likely to be painful.


2. Give me time to understand what you want of me.


3. Place your trust in me. It is crucial for my well-being..


4. Don't be angry with me for long and don't lock me up as punishment. You have your work, your friends, your entertainment, but I have only you.


5. Talk to me. Even if I don't understand your words, I do understand your voice when speaking to me.


6. Be aware that however you treat me, I will never forget it.


7. Before you hit me, before you strike me, remember that I could hurt you, and yet, I choose not to bite you.


8. Before you scold me for being lazy or uncooperative, ask yourself if something might be bothering me. Perhaps I'm not getting the right food, I have been in the sun too long, or my heart might be getting old or weak.


9. Please take care of me when I grow old. You too, will grow old.


10. On the ultimate difficult journey, go with me please. Never say you can't bear to watch. Don't make me face this alone. Everything is easier for me if you are there, because I love you so.