Yesterday, while running at a track I frequent, I finally had the perfect opportunity to say “thank you,” to the man who is always there walking but also feeding the beautiful stray cats who live there. He comes on his bicycle, parks it and starts walking the trail, filling bowls he has placed in designated spots at the back of the park. On many occasions I have witness how happy the cats are as they come running out to eat and drink fresh water. It always impresses me how well they share with one another, a lesson we humans can stand to learn. He has been doing this for 7 years and recently found one baby kitten there, which he decided to take in as his own. Sounds like it was a win-win for the man and the kitty!
One thing I have observed through my 35 years in the fitness industry is that people that take care of their own health by working out, also tend to care more about the well-being of others. My students are the most giving, kind, unselfish people and it is a gift to watch them interact with one another.
My mind goes back to a something my sister and brother-in-law gave Kyle when he born. A beautiful prayer, by Hillel which opened with these words:
“If I am not for myself, who will be for me? But if I am only for myself, who am I?
As you make your way through this (Vegan Feast) Thursday, please consider a plant-based meal (or 3) and remember that the animals have all the same needs as the humans. Maybe more. They, after-all, cannot speak for themselves.
