A very puppy (and happy) Christmas!

Christmas is approaching. As a proud dog lover I wanted to include in my Christmas wishes, not only nature in general, but also our pets in particular. I know that some of my friends think that as humans we are above or in the pinnacle of the animal kingdom. “Animals are animals and they should be treated as such” is a common phrase denominator.

But for all of us who have had a closer contact with animals, whether in the wild or at home, we know that this view of ourselves as superior sometimes falls short of the mark when compared to our animal friends. Whether cats, dogs, horses, cows, pigs, elephants, bees or whatever your animal friend of choice is, we know from experience of the love, affection, intelligence and companionship that they provide us.

I have a phrase that may shock some. But the fact is that I always say that looking at my dogs’ eyes I do not see original sin, while I can see it in the eyes of most human beings I have met during my life. Animals are innocent; they are capable of amazing feats and of kindness and feelings that only those of us who enjoy “pet extended families” can understand.

I do not think it is just by chance that the story of the manger is framed by many of the domestic animals of choice at the time of Christ’s birth. The adoring company of sheep, goats, the faithful donkey that carried the pregnant Virgin Mary, the camels that brought the 3 Kings from the far east are all clear signs that our animals are as much a part of this story of redemption as we are (St. Francis of Assisi, just to cite an example, was a great believer in this all encompassing view of creation).

So, to my late dear Khamala who must be enjoying the green pastures of the Lord, and to my present day family members Zamba and Pancha, and to all of your family pets, farm animals and the animal kingdom in general, a very merry Christmas to you all from all of us as well.

  And I hope you enjoy this video I found. It is extremely cute.

Growl, meow and Merry Christmas to all!