I’m on vacation at my daughter’s house so I can play with her two dogs. They are the best kind of pain in the neck. Barking is a demand to be played with, and of course, I give in. I admit I am an animal nut. Nothing makes me feel happier than to have my face washed by a rough tongue; especially if a bark goes with it.

Loving animals makes my soul feel contented. Watching the birds on my feeder or the deer eating illegal corn or a porcupine teasing my dog fills my life. I never wanted diamonds or furs but I can’t live without something to pet.

I remember the first pet I had as a married woman. I married a man who never was allowed a pet. He said we could get a dog if it was a male. A neighbor was giving away puppies but they were all female. Therefore, we got Louie and my husband loved (him) until he held the pup above his head and realized Louie was a girl. Too late, she was already loved.

I feel that the warmth received from animals makes one feel kinder to people.

After seeing the anger and dissatisfaction all through this country, I wish I could get everyone to pet a dog. We need to have a thought about peace. We must have leaders who care about all of us; young, old, black, white, yellow, green, purple, or blue. As I am the old grey mare now, I can see that our differences make us the same. We all have a need for love. We all need to live in a world where we can say hello to our neighbors, where we share what we have with those who need it more. If we don’t’ love one another, how can we love ourselves?

Let us all find someone today we can show a little love and kindness to.

I care about my community and I am sure you do also. Let’s love together.