Bless the beasts

I recently saw a photo and story online of a Dutch zoo worker who was diagnosed with terminal cancer. The worker was lying on a bed and a giraffe was giving him a kiss. It was as if the giraffe knew what was happening and was offering solace to the dying man. It was an image that touched my soul. As I read the many comments posted I realized that the effect of the photo was not limited to me alone. Countless readers shared how they were touched by this gesture and what their personal experiences were with animals in situations such as this. I believe that we are connected to everything whether we considerate it animate or inanimate. The atoms and molecules of the elements that compose us as humans are also those that compose the plants and animals, the sea, and the air we breathe. It is not surprising that animals are sensitive to our emotional and physical states. We tend to be reluctant in acknowledging their ability to do so. They may be more attuned to the spiritual principles of the universe than we are given their receptivity to the moment without questioning its purpose. As you walk through your day, look for evidence of your connection to what is around you, especially the animals you encounter. What lessons can you learn from them today?