The recent prime time documentary in relation to horrendous treatment of horses was deeply disturbing for many people. Animals and pets are very precious and in the story of creation hold a sacred place in the sight of God. The kinder we are to pets and nature often the closer we sense God’s presence in our lives.

I love the following humorous story….

“A wealthy man decided to go on a safari in Africa. He took his faithful pet dog along for company. One day, the dog starts chasing butterflies, and before long, he discovers that he is lost. Wandering about, he notices a leopard heading rapidly in his direction with the obvious intention of having lunch. The dog thinks, “Boy, I’m in deep doo doo now.” Then, he noticed some bones on the ground close by and immediately settles down to chew on the bones with his back to the approaching cat. Just as the leopard is about to leap, the dog exclaims loudly, “Man, that was one delicious leopard. I wonder if there are any more around here?” Hearing this, the leopard halts his attack in mid stride, as a look of terror comes over him, and slinks away into the trees. “Whew,” says the leopard, “That was close. That dog nearly had me.” Meanwhile, a monkey who had been watching the whole scene from a nearby tree figures he can put this knowledge to good use and trade it for protection from the leopard. So, off he goes. But the dog saw him heading after the leopard with great speed and figured that something must be up. The monkey soon catches up with the leopard, spills the beans, and strikes a deal for himself with the leopard. The leopard is furious at being made a fool and says, “Here monkey, hop on my back and see what’s going to happen to that conniving canine.” Now the dog sees the leopard coming with the monkey on his back and thinks, “What am I going to do now?” But instead of running, the dog sits down with his back to his attackers, pretending he hasn’t seen them yet. Just when they get close enough to hear, the dog says, “Where’s that monkey? I just can never trust him. I sent him off half an hour ago to bring me another leopard, and he’s still not back!”

Sometimes in life we need the gift of pragmatism. Behind every challenge no matter how overwhelming it may be, there is always a way forward. Gifts such as honesty, courage, trust and faith are abundant in all our lives. Perhaps there have been tricky moments when we had to “Think on our feet” like that clever dog. Let’s hope we will be blessed with a prolonged period of fine weather. Make the most of this time to tap the positive and resilient energy that accompanies Summer. This is a time to be chilled, relax and renew. May we find these important gifts in all our lives.

Summer Prayer

Creator God, thank You for summer!

Thank you for the warmth of the sun and the increased daylight.

Thank You for the beauty I see all around me and for the opportunity to be outside and enjoy Your creation.

Thank You for the increased time I have to be with my friends and family, and for the more casual pace of the summer season.

Draw me closer to You this summer.

Teach me how I can pray no matter where I am or what I am doing.

Warm my soul with the awareness of Your presence and light my path with Your Word and Counsel.

As I enjoy Your creation, create in me a pure heart and a hunger and a thirst for You. Amen.

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