I learned early that chickens are individuals with inherent worth. Sharing that knowledge is important. Seeing the bonds form between the girls is beautiful; they have helped to heal my heart just as I’ve done my best to help heal them.
Image credit: Kristen Hess
Sanctuaries are the backbone of our movement for justice. They are a crucial part of providing refuge, education, and connection.
As soon as I could walk, my love for cats was profound. I carried a
sample of cat food in my backpack for the day when I’d care for a
cat of my “own.” That love blossomed on my grandparents’ farm in
Iowa during sunny summers.
On that farm, I also had the opportunity to hold an egg in my hand
while the tiny chick pecked away the shell. She wanted to see the
world and worked so hard to move towards the light. My awe for that
tiny being felt no different than what I felt for any of the cats I
loved.
I’ve done my best to offer a home to as many felines and canines as
possible over the years, beginning with my beloved first cat, Annie.
However, something was missing—or rather someone. It was those that
many interact with only on plates.
Our microsanctuary became a response to helplessness and hope in
equal measure.
Starting each day caring for individuals brought into the world to become food has tipped the scales for me, on most days, towards hope.
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Please read the ENTIRE ARTICLE HERE (PDF).