A strange compassion is extended to our pets. Our puppy Gabe has some sort of illness related to his liver. The bill for his treatment, I’m guessing, will cost twice as much as it would be to purchase a replacement pet. Not for one moment would we consider such a solution even though economically it would be smart. After all, we bought him to amuse us. Another dog would serve that same end but cost much less.
My question is, why am I unwilling let Gabe simply suffer unto death and replace him with another? The answer, I suspect, turns on compassion for a suffering animal and family loyalty. There is an unspoken, unwritten, and, maybe even an unconsidered agreement or covenant between owner and pet. There is a bond that must be honored, even if a great expense is incurred.
This bond could be extended to all animals and perhaps in a more perfect world it would be – but it isn’t. The bond is between Terri and me, and Gabe. He is ours not only as something we own but something more than that. His status as a member of our household affords him, at the very least, veterinary care.
There is presently an opportunity to alleviate suffering as a result of a set of natural disasters in Japan and of political turmoil in the mid-east. Beyond that is an ongoing state of suffering from hunger and disease in many parts of the world and in our nation -- even in our own community. I am ashamed to say that my bond of loyalty and compassion for my dear puppy is stronger than for the rest of a world in need.
How do I repent of my distorted compassion?
1 comment:
Gary, you nail it with your post. We are all guilty of this.
I think the only answer comes in relationships. We love our pets. We love our family. It is very hard to love people we know not.
Nevertheless, you hit the nail on the head with a root problem. May we all be reformed!
All the best,
Tom Paine
Metairie, LA
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