Empathy + Action
There were so many lovely responses about the story of saying goodbye to our foster puppy, Davis.
I feel compelled to address a genre of these responses, not only about expressed admiration of the effort, but more specifically about how you might not be able to foster. While I always love hearing from you and appreciate the compliments, this is not my purpose. I do what I do for the dogs of the world like Davis—period. Moreover, there is an army of wonderful foster homes doing the same and more, which is what makes this grass-roots movement so powerful.
It reminds me of that story of the boy on a post storm, starfish covered beach, throwing starfish after starfish back into the ocean with the hope of their survival. When a man, watching the boy’s actions, tells him that he can’t possibly throw enough of them back to make a difference, the boy bends down, picks up another starfish and throws it back into the ocean. The boy smiles at the man and says, “I made a difference for that one.”
Working in rescue can, at times, be overwhelming and heartbreaking. There are so many in need. When you focus on what you can do, instead of what you cannot, the possibilities expand. For me, saving animals, even fostering for a short time, is a gesture of love not only for the dog (in this case), but also for the family in which the dog gets adopted. It is life affirming!Showing an abused or neglected animal that humans are good, kind and loving provides them with a new framework through which to experience the world. It gives them a fresh start, a second chance in life. Helping to raise a “good dog”, to then give that dog to a wonderful family to bring them joy and love, is a tangible way of paying it forward.Moreover, the fostering process allows my children to experience empathy with action. It teaches them that if you have the power to make a positive change, then don’t just talk—do something. Empathy without action is a bit of a spectator sport.It has been scientifically proven that selfless service is one of the best ways to evoke feelings of happiness and well-being. It raises your vibration--your state of consciousness. Raising up one, raises us all.
Each life you touch matters, even if it’s only one and even if it is only briefly.As individuals, we can choose to take action and participate in the world around us. Together, we can shape the future. We all have a gift to give; your job is to find your particular gift.
With so much love,
Kari
If you do feel that fostering is something you’d like to consider, you can reach out to your local SPCA or do a google search for “foster-based rescue groups or organizations” in your area.
Right now so many shelters and rescues are overflowing, and unfortunately, many are left behind.