An Animal Rescuer

My job is to assist God's creatures
I was born with the drive to fulfill their needs
I take in helpless, unwanted, homeless creatures without planning or selection

I have bought dog food with my last dime
I have patted a mangy head with a bare hand
I have hugged someone vicious and afraid

I have fallen in love a thousand times
And I have cried into the fur of a lifeless body too many times to count

I have animal friends and friends who have animal friends
I don't often use the word "pet"

I notice those lost at the road side
And my heart aches

I will hand raise a field mouse
And make friends with a vulture
I know of no creature unworthy of my time

I want to live forever if there aren't any animals in Heaven
But I believe there are
Why would God make something so perfect and leave it behind

Some may think we are master of the animals
But the animals have mastered themselves

Something people still haven't learned
War and abuse make me hurt for the world

But a rescue that makes the news gives me hope for mankind

We are a quiet but determined army
And we are making a difference every day

There is nothing more necessary than warming an orphan
Nothing more rewarding than saving a life
No higher recognition than watching them thrive

There is no greater joy than seeing a baby play
Who only days ago, was too weak to eat

By the love of those who I've been privileged to rescue
I have been rescued

I know what true unconditional love really is
For I've seen it shining in the eyes of so many
Grateful for so little

I am an Animal Rescuer
My work is never done
My home is never quiet
My wallet is always empty
But my heart is always full