Caged...

To be free.  Isn't that what we all strive for?  Every living creature is born with the undying desire to be free.  For centuries we as humans have fought to the death to just be able to live free, die free.  For some, freedom is to be able to practice your beliefs, others it is to be rid of racial slurs and hatred.  Maybe freedom is to just be rid of your own inner demons, or to just be able to feel the sun warm your skin and the wind blow through your hair.  Could you ever imagine living without freedom?  Could you live without freedom-consumed by the suffocation of being locked away from your natural desires?   Most would die to be free; almost all would fight to be free.  As humans we are strong, a powerful race, with the ability to rely on each other in numbers.  We can problem solve and convict motivation within ourselves and others.  We have the ability to fight against angst and the unjust.  We have proven for centuries that we will not be repressed, we are truly strong.  But what of those who are weak?  Our world of countries have always had allies, aiding in the time of need.  Our own country has sent and is sending aid to those countries who cannot fend for themselves; who need help, who need a guiding hand.  We give aid so effortlessly to our fellow humans; always fighting for those weaker than us. But what of our animal friends? 

Now, I know most would believe that animals are a sub-species and maybe at first glance they are.  Animals do not hold rallies and protest in numbers, appeal to Congress, have talk shows or even know how to begin to fight their unjust caging.  What most of us don't realize is that our animal community is just as important if not more important than we as humans.  Every species has its place here on earth.  The circle of life isn't just something you heard about in the "Lion King" - it is real.  Without the natural balance animals create here on earth-providing food for us and controlling the population of each other and grooming our plant-life, through consumption- we as humans would be completely lost.  We could not begin to do half the work animals provide for us.  Even today some species have scientists stumped about the natural knowledge they carry about the earths inner workings.  The circle of life, leaning on another by following our own natural desires, to increase and maintain balance for the world.  So why is it we have such disrespect for such a large working piece of our planet?

Back to freedom.  Walking into a pet shop, or someones home who owns pets-two scenarios. 

One:  A very loving family that provides all the natural essentials for their "pet", depending on breed, a happy well adjusted animal. Good! Great!  There are many of us who have high respect for their furry, scaly, feathered companions. We appreciate the energy and happiness we gain from having them in our lives and respectfully give them the freedom that allows them to fulfill their natural tendencies.  Much like letting your child become the thespian they some much want to be, even though you might want them to be a basketball star, they are happy and living true unto themselves.

Two:  The animal is caged.  A small cage only a few inches bigger than their bodies, barely to able to spread their wings, or stretch their legs.  Stuck, alone no affection, like a prison, food shoved under the door. Isolation and depression. Bitterness and sadness starting to affect the temperament of this creature.  And what was the crime? Not a murder, or a robbery, just caged for existing.  Existing for a selfish human who could not understand the beauty and importance this creature embraces.  Caged by someone who could not begin to imagine his own injustice or lack of freedom. 

What do we gain by caging the life around us?   Is it the need to feel in control, or just ignorance-probably both.  This is where most of our wars start by one race trying to cage another.  We all know is doesn't work. So why do we cage our defenceless animal brethren who only exist to live out their born rights, to provide for us, maintaining our land and giving us joy and happiness?  Perhaps, we as humans show our weakness here.  Like the big bully on the playground, who is just throwing around his size, we dominate over those who don't get the choice to fight for themselves.

In this blog I will do my best to bring forth my views and opinions on this issue of "caging".  I will also be sharing with you the science behind my testimony.  I look forward to sharing with you as well as you sharing with me your thoughts.  I hope from this you will gain understanding and I will gain some guidance as to how to turn this blog into action.  I wish only for the respect of both worlds to live in harmony in this circle of life.  I promise to bring forth a different topic every time I blog to make sure we are covering all the basis!  I also understand that this is a sensitive subject for some.  I do not wish to unwelcome criticism, but I only ask to please be respectful of what is happening here! Thanks for this opportunity, blog to you soon!