I find it comforting, the knowledge that we are a part of the greater whole, not simply "dropped" here on the planet. Looking into the eyes of these marvelous creatures, one cannot help but see that we are kin.

Which of course makes me even sadder when I see the way many of us treat them. Frankly, the way we treat all animals is depraved, unjust, and just plain disgusting. Don't take me for someone who believes we should only consume plants, never wear animal products (although I have a problem with fur simply because the rest of the animal is often wasted), etc. That is not what I am espousing. What I am saying is that we, who are supposedly superior, should be able to treat the "lesser" creatures with respect, dignity, and kindness. We do not need to treat those animals we raise for food as we do, making their lives painful and terrifying.

Ack! That was a major tangent. My apologies.