Successful Event!

My brother Bob was out with his wife, Mary, doing the Saturday shuffle, groceries, gas for the car-the stuff we all do when we have time when he remembered that me and Cheryl were nearby, hosting a pet adoption event at Pet Supplies Plus.

"Let's go see Mike and Cheryl," he said to Mary, "but don't even think about getting a dog!"

Hmm... Probably should have reminded himself that he wasn't going home with a dog! This is Bob and Bruin, the newest member of The Morse family!

Seven dogs found homes at the event, and lots more found interested people who will hopefully follow up with New England All Breed Rescue and The Cranston RI Municipal animal Shelter. I met the people behind The Pawprint Press, two high school kids who devote most of their free time at the shelter and publishing a newsletter showcasing the pets available for adoption there.

Kelly O'Brien, the owner of NEABR showed up with an army of volunteers, most of whom happened to be her kids, and what awesome kids they are! I enjoyed their company most of all, even more than the adorable puppies and dogs that they brought with them. They sat with the dogs that weren't getting any attention, helped with this and that and were simply a joy to be around.

The more I learn about these pet adoption events and pet rescues the more I realize just how much I like people. It would be easy to focus on the dogs; they are wonderful, but it is the people who put in the work to find homes for these little critters who inspire me, and make me want to be a better person, and devote some of my time to making the world a better place.

There is joy in this world, true and real. It is in abundant supply. It is right under our noses, and anybody can absorb it, and make it part of themselves. It is contagious, and when you get a little it becomes infectious, and the more joy you give the more you get back.

When we adopted Mr. Wilson we received far more than a scruffy little dog. We became part of a family of people who inspire us, and exude happiness, and make us better people. It is an honor and privilege to be part of something that is far bigger than ourselves, and the endless pursuit of things and comfort.

Thanks to everybody who came to the event, worked to make it happen and especially to those who helped a homeless dog make it home.