animal appreciation week

Well, not technically that I'm aware of, but I did finish updating the celebration page in the causes section of the site, and wanted to post it here ...

It's often been said that children have a natural fascination with animals and the wonders of their existence.  But as many of us grow older and distracted by more "adult" interests, and often less personally involved with animals, we can lose much of the natural delight and admiration we used to have (see for instance my own story).  And our appreciation for the individual value and dignity of animal life diminishes as a result.  Rumors, even realities, of animal abuse and misuse seem more vague and distant, and not important enough for us to worry about.

Developing an appreciation for animals and the nuances of their makeup and mannerisms is ultimately a gift from God himself, just as the reality of their existence is in the first place (see creation).  Sometimes it surprises and even overwhelms us when we least expect it.  But God also wants us to open our minds and hearts to the goodness of his creatures, for their benefit and our own enjoyment, but also to understand his own goodness and love better.  The animal kingdom on the whole is one of the richest and most captivating graces available to us.

Celebrating animals also goes a long way towards motivating us, as individuals and a community, to nurture and protect them as God meant us to (see stewardship).  It's unlikely that we'll take neglect and abuse of animals seriously unless we first have a deep-seated respect for the nature and needs they were created with.  This can be developed any number of ways, from reading books and magazines to taking in film documentaries and internet sites.  These are all excellent resources, but generally the most lasting impressions are formed through genuine interactions with the animals themselves, whether keeping pets and paying closer attention to neighboring wildlife, or spending time at rescue shelters and animal sanctuaries.

[see our new celebration resource pg. for more]

Comments

[stj]

Cute images you got there :)

I can find them on 123rf?

[Ben DeVries]

Thanks for the note, STJ, and yes, some of the images, perhaps 4 or 5, are from 123rf.com.