Animals have been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. As a little girl, I rode all over the countryside with my grandfather in his Ford F-150. He’d pull over and rescue frogs, turtles, dogs, cats and even snakes from harm. Those who had been injured were promptly taken to the local vet for loving care.
I could bore you with the long list of pets I’ve loved throughout my life, but I’ll sum it up to say that I’ve loved a flock of birds, a kennel of dogs, a pride of cats, countless schools of fish, one lone iguana, a baby anole who hatched and accidentally found his way into my house for two days (I cried when I took him outside because he was so precious), and even my mom’s famous bullfrogs. These experiences have taught me countless lessons about life. But this video captured my attention and heart last week. And I think it will capture yours, too:
I can just watch that story over and over again. It’s so beautiful and so full of hope for all of us. Here are just some of the lessons:
1. There are people you don’t know who care about your happiness and success.
2. Strangers will pull together to make good things happen, yes, even for you.
3. No matter how bleak your past has been, there is always hope for a better tomorrow.
4. Even something as seemingly harmless as walking on luscious green grass can be scary if you’ve never done it before.
5. Every little bit helps, no matter how small. Those small things, whether they’re donations or positive thoughts or smiles, can all add up to do the seemingly impossible: bring happiness and hope.
6. Life isn’t meant to be only for one purpose, and even if your previous purpose wasn’t that great, you deserve fun and happiness- play time even!
7. One person’s vision to make the world a better place can make a difference, no matter what steps or obstacles have to be conquered.
Taking his first step ever on grass...
8. The first step is always the hardest. But it gets easier after that.
9. Do things when you feel safe and secure- even if it’s not on someone else’s time table.
10. You can lead and inspire others to be brave, too, even when you’re not sure what you’re doing (like taking that first step).
11. Just because someone else has hurt you, doesn’t mean everyone will
12. Love doesn’t hurt. It encourages. It accepts. It understands you.
13. Celebrate every step and every success!
The Beagle Freedom Project began in December 2010 when one person, Shannon Keith, learned that beagles used in research lab experiments were eligible to have a second chance at life. Watching them take their first steps, literally, is best described by watching it. To find out more, visit www.beaglefreedomproject.org.
What a wonderful article! From a “single mom handling much stress”, that also has a Beagle, named Clover! She had a rough time as well, losing an eye to a tumor, which was benign, but bouncing back with much love and care. On the other side of the coin, this wonderful little girl has more than once saved my spirit, and lowered MY stress level. I have always loved animals, and am a true dog lover. But this Beagle is something beyond any dog I’ve ever known. She has such heart, soul and understanding, (oh,and that sense of smell), that U cannot imagine. I am thankful for her everyday, she really is my best friend, and I am hers!
I would also like to mention, as a single mom, when this tumor appeared I did not have the funds needed to have her surgery, I feel into a wonderful organization here in my city in WA state. The Sergey Foundation. They help low income families that need emergency Veterinary assistance. They are a local foundation and need every bit of help they can get as well. I sat on the Board with them as much as I could to try to offer my photography services,bake homemade doggie treats for Events, just trying to pay it forward. If anyone would like to see their work, or donate, please go to http://www.facebook.com/groups/165618590134804/. Just another group of “Angels” trying to help All Gods Creatures, Great and Small!
what a fantastic post! I love the Beagle Freedom Project.
Shannon,
Thank you for your kind words, but most importantly, for what you do with these precious little animals! I hope all of them are doing well and they are learning what it feels like to be safe, loved and happy!
Tammy
Thank you for this beautiful and insightful article about Beagle Freedom Project. It brought tears to my eyes. I hope that people make the connection you display with your words. Sending love, hope, compassion and freedom! ~ Shannon Keith