May 5 - 11 is Be Kind to Animals Week, sponsored by the American Humane Association. This special week has been recognized since 1915 and commemorates the important part that animals play in our lives. It's a time to encourage other people, especially children, to show kindness and respect for all creatures.
I really believe every child starts out loving animals. Then something happens along the way that impacts how they view them. Perhaps an unsupervised incident caused trauma, fear, or anxiety. Maybe a child grew up in an atmosphere that promoted the belief that animals are merely disposable creatures that do not think, communicate, or feel pain...and therefore are unworthy of compassionate treatment.
Does it matter what children believe? I think so.
If we can nurture in each child a culture that embodies the concept of respect for all living things, benefits will abound. For when children become compassionate adults, the world becomes a happier, healthier, and safer place.
Is there something you can do to show kindness?
"I am only one; but still I am one. I cannot do everything, but still I can do something. I will not refuse to do the something I can do. ~ Helen Keller
