Animal Kingdom

I love animals -- always have and always will.

Animals have an innocence about them that is immediately appealing. They are beautiful creatures, without the corruption that the ability to think and discriminate brings to our minds. They love us irrespective of who we are, what we do, and how we act. That kind of acceptance is something we all yearn for, and that is what draws us to animals. The same applies to humans, you want to be around those who are nice to you.

I went to the zoo in Phoenix Park today with the disabled kids that I volunteer with. The zoo was really great, it was more of a habitat for the animals than a captive environment. I was paired up with a really sweet girl named Emily, and we took our time meandering through the pathways (though we didn't get a chance to see her favorite, the giraffes, because we were forced to stay together as a large group). Anyway, it was still lovely (the weather was gorgeous) and Emily and I had some pleasant talks. I had been considering quitting the CASA organization because I've been paired with some naughty and spoiled kids the last couple months (we have a different kid each time), but this outing and being with Emily is making me reconsider staying with the group now. When people are appreciative, it's much nicer to want to give your time to make their lives happy.

Enjoy some pictures from today...