Strange Priorities

We went to a pumpkin farm fundraiser this weekend. It was $15.00 per car and that included horse rides, tractor hay rides, tattoos, a fishing "pond," lots of animals to pet & feed, places to play and a FREE pumpkin for each child.

We ended up talking to the man who was there with the more unusual animals. It was very cool to see the falcon and the itty bitty owl, among other wild animals. He was "guarding" the bald eagle and told us the story of how she came into his care. She had a problem with her wing that required surgery and she was not able to be released back into the wild since she now cannot fly straight. He also told us about a 27 year old bald eagle (way past the average life span) who came into their care with MALARIA of all things.

The animal rehabilitators had to search for malaria medication for this bird. The gentleman we talked to indicated it was complicated and pricey. He also added that the malaria infected bird only lived for three and a half weeks before dying from it's illness. (Maybe old age, too?) He proudly emphasized that at least the bird was able to die in a warm, dry barn...well fed...with the knowledge and comfort of someone taking care of her and attempting to protect her. She died with dignity...and she was not alone.

This makes me cry. Not for the bird. For the children. Who die alone. Who are not warm and dry. Who are FULLY aware that no one cares for them. Who do not get the medicine, food or clean water they need to survive...(or just not die quite so young). Who KNOW how vulnerable and unprotected they are. Who do suffer.

I do not criticize this man and his co-workers/volunteers who care for these animals. I just cannot understand how so many of us can turn our hearts cold toward SO MANY vulnerable, suffering & DYING children...

NOTE: I am happy to be able to report that these PARTICULAR "animal lovers" ARE indeed doing something for the children. The fundraiser was for orphans and needy families in South Africa! So...they used the animals they are caring for to draw people to an event that is providing for some of the children. :)