DISQUS

Axle · 1 year ago

If it is believed all animals are Gods creatures, one would assume that Humans would make the connection that Man, being made in Gods likeness, has the ability to be compassionate.
Maa never liked animals in the house: after all they were animals! But each had his purpose, and as such might be helpful to you. Therefore you looked after it. The cat caught mice and vermin, the dog warned you of strangers and protected you when you went walking, the chickens killed snakes and laid eggs could be eaten, etc. Interestingly I think what she found most important though was that they might be the reincarnation of some relative, and so you always treated animals with gentleness and friendliness. Hence, when the children went to chase or kick Jerry, a lame, mangy, smelly old dog whom she had had since a puppy, she would scream at them, telling them their foot would rot or their hand become curled if they used it against him. It was ok to kill an animal for food, or if it was poisonous, but never to torment it.
But then, Trinidad Hindus are old fashioned. xxxx.

Jen Swift · 1 year ago

Compassion to animals is a learned behavior like any other. People there are compassionate to the cows, because everyone else is, and conversely most people will be rotten to cats and dogs is everyone else that they know is.

Keep on fighting the good fight, Ananda. Being a leader through example is not easy, but I bet you will make an impression on those around you!

p.s. We miss you!