We all know that the events of September 11, 2001, were without a doubt the most unprecedented attack on the United States in the last 60 years. It left all of us in shock, and we are still reeling from the implications of the attack. We have shared our fear and our hopes, and no matter what the results of the terrorist's plans, we have shown that as a nation and as a people that we are ready to give to those in need, as shown by the unprecedented donations made to The American Red Cross, The World Trade Center Fund, The New York Police and Firefighters Fund and all the other organizations that have given of themselves to help fight the devastation in New York, at the Pentagon and in Pennsylvania.
In some ways, the feeling across the United States is like the fleeting one we see every year at Christmas. We all feel the need to give of ourselves in some manner to show our support for those who died or are suffering from these attacks. And we need to continue to show our support to those organizations that are assisting those in need.
At the same time, we can't forget those in need closer to home. President Bush has repeatedly told us that as Americans we need to go on with our lives. That means getting back to normal, and doing the things we have always done. Like supporting our local animal shelters. The massive outpouring of support to those helping the victims of the terrorists have slowed the donations to the various shelters and other organizations that help benefit the welfare of companion animals. It is important that we continue to give to those organizations and shelters that we have in the past, to show to them our support and our appreciation for the work that they do.
Give to The American Red Cross and the other organizations helping the victims of the attacks, but don't forget the local animal shelter. Donate blood, but also buy an extra bag of food and give it to your local shelter. It is important that we try and help everyone, and that we continue to live life the way we always have. Remember the homeless and abandoned animals in your community, and do what you can to support them. It is one way that we can all get back to normal in this time of national crisis and grief.
Brian Baker is a writer and animal rights proponent. He has been published locally and nationally, most notably in Chicken Soup for the Cat Lover's Soul. Currently, Baker spends his time working with a local organization (www.safehavenforpets.org) that not only operates a shelter for animals but also does extensive work with feral cats. To exchange correspondence with the author, write to brianpbaker@hotmail.com or bbaker563@aol.com