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- Igniting the Flame Again
  February 16, 2018My heart felt the familiar drop today when a dear friend of the family shared the loss of his beloved dog. It has been a year of that; so many friends have encountered it; few words can provide solace, but no words, are far worse. I can so easily recall the wrenching pain, the moments that led up to the passing of Rafferty, Legacy, and Impulse, each of them vastly unique, but embedded in my heart. Each experience called upon an inner strength reserved for those of us willing to love an animal for however long their earth destiny would link them to us, knowing of the strong likelihood we would be ushering them through a transition away from us; that familiar comfort of their bodies only one stroke away. It is inconceivable, until it happens. When we are called to be the voice, the caretaker that must think of the absolute well-being of our animal, when we would do just about anything to keep them here, we must rise to the occasion, and let them rest from the active, all encompassing, no- holds- barred love so many of them give without a blink of an eye. No judgement. Just love. If our adored pet passes on his or her own, it leaves a different kind of mark on our hearts, but in either case, it hurts. In the wake of this event, an emptiness often hovers; a deafening silence where clanking chains, barking, lapping at a water bowl, and one of my favorite sounds, dog crunching, once lived. It becomes broken routines, an empty lap and the lack of being admired by our canine counterparts for walking back in the door after going to the mailbox, as though we have returned from a trip around the world. We enter into a contract of the heart when we realize the capacity to give and share our world with a furry animal. It will be met with challenges as they transition into their new lives, if they have not been treated well in the past, have disabilities or need training, but most often, a level of mutual admiration will grow and eclipse the hardships. Our daily lives are so filled with opportunities for comparison, fear, self-criticism, and wondering, are we enough? Even though a more enlightened perspective reminds us comparison is the thief of joy, fear is a lack of faith, and self-criticism is ego edging out our clearest, cleanest, inner voice of light, many of us still face this challenge. Our beloved dogs remind us we are more than enough. We love them for so many vast reasons, but I believe this is one of the most crucially important messages they leave with us when their earthly bodies are no longer here. From my own experience, I can say, the passing of a loved one is never goodbye. It is a shift, not an ending; a pain that is also the companion to the deepest, immeasurable love we were privileged to know. Adoption of a homeless animal is a life-affirming experience; so many are just waiting to start their lives with hope, safety and validation. If you have a pet that has departed, consider adopting an animal that will be a legacy to honor the one that has passed; when you are ready. It ignites a flame that can be everlasting.... Read more...
- When Despair Meets Transforming Love…
  December 7, 2014I recently heard a Buddhist saying: Things happen. You decide what they mean. A year ago, I watched a video along with millions attracted to this form of animal advocacy, and felt my heart free-fall with emotional anguish at such raw suffering. Miley, a Husky Malamute mix, who was living in a junkyard, atop a trash pile; her battered, exhausted face, and skin infested and infected body would soon become a dog rescue icon. Watch Miley’s Dramatic Rescue I thought, why? Why such suffering? Perhaps it is her job to teach the masses what can happen when despair meets transforming love. The village came calling and many hands and hearts healed Miley’s physical challenges. Often much in a rescue dog’s background is not ever known, but it was evident that despite neglectful circumstances, Miley, with the heart of a lion, not only responded to compassion, she offered it a hundred fold. Miley’s journey was palpable; hundreds of people applied to adopt her as they saw themselves as being the ones who could usher her to a beautiful life. Our dear friend, Toni Bua, an accomplished actress, singer, producer, and writer deeply aligned with her own spiritual journey, was the chosen one to heal whatever scars remained inside. A tigress herself in the way she has handled physical challenges such as breast cancer, and the emotional devastation of losing her partner in life, Gene, Toni was ready to bestow a boundless love onto Miley. The coming together was fate , and I might even say, divinely inspired. Miley’s message is that tomorrow will be a better day. Care greatly and with all that is uniquely yours. Know that in a moment, destiny can rise to meet us where we are and elevate us to places beyond our comprehension. When there is Hope…. Anything Can Happen. ... Read more...
- The timing of all things
  September 19, 2014As I mark the first anniversary of releasing our precious dog, Legacy’s body, from this earthly place, it has been clear her presence lives in ways that almost defy description. I was once told that in the midst of grief, some people are able to celebrate the life of their loved one almost immediately. They can visit a place of joy and peace about their passing and recall rich happy memories. For others, the reliving of the event of death, the unbearable essence of loss and emptiness that permeates the soul can be around for quite some time despite the desire to let it go. I am of that second group. The idea of another dog was not in my realm. Known for being passionate about the love of dogs, and helping to save rescue dogs, this may seem counterintuitive, but it was my truth. About nine months after Legacy passed on, my spirit became restless with the thought that perhaps the time had come to adopt another dog- maybe one that needed us more than we needed her. At least, initially. After visiting a rescue facility one day, to see a dog we didn’t ultimately feel was a good match for us, I allowed myself a brief window of time to look on the internet. If I didn’t find one, I was willing to let go of this notion for a while longer, knowing timing is key in this endeavor. When I saw her, the little smile on a dog named Destiny’s face, despite the description of her having been found on the street being abused by children, a knowing inside of me began to stir. It’s a wonderful and poignant story, one that includes the caring graces and efforts of Saving K-9 Lives Plus, www.savingk9livesplus.org, a devoted foster mom, Annalisa, a trainer, Drew, who gave this quirky little energy propelled Sheltie/Fox terrier some wings to navigate around her fears, and a connection well beyond anything we could have hoped for. We didn’t expect a dog with such a rough start in life to bond so quickly, deeply and trustingly. But she did. We named her Ariya; pure, precious, valuable, and not ordinary, according to a Buddhist translation. She is beautiful, agile, silly, smart, demonstrative once she knows someone, and above all, the manifestation of faith. She is a reminder that light always penetrates darkness, and love remains; it prevails above all.... Read more...
- Why Dog Love?
  May 25, 2014Dog love. It is not that different than People love, but for those who have been blessed and grateful enough to have experienced it in their lives, it hardly needs a description from me. When dogs show up in our lives and are seen as gifts, the kind you learn from and revel in, life is simply better and richer. Having loved some extraordinary dogs in my day, it got me thinking about the term “unconditional.” It is so often paired with the word love in describing that which our dogs give us daily. So, what are some ways that these beautiful beings bestow unconditional love? Dogs don’t see color, and I don’t mean they are blind to the hues of the rainbow. I mean they don’t distinguish people by their race. They could care less about that; they only care about the energy a person gives off, whether or not it is safe to approach, or if they will be received with acceptance, and without any negativity. Dogs are stealth at uncovering authenticity in their human counterparts and ethnicity has no role in this assessment. Dogs care more about who you are than what you do for a living. Successful, highly paid actors have dogs, but so do homeless people, many of whom I have met, that swear the companionship they share with their animal is their life force. I have witnessed these reciprocal bonds as nearly sacred. They help us remember to share the core of who we are, and not to be so concerned with what others think about what we do, especially as it pertains to a career. Dogs will love you just as much if you are ill, disabled, depressed, or stuck at home in bed with the common cold. And, they will often rise to the occasion and lay extra close for comfort. In our family, we refer to all of our dogs as “Nurse Betty,” when this situation comes up. Never has one of our diverse dogs failed to “get” that we needed a little extra something that day. Dogs unabashedly and without any calculated measure, are thrilled to see you whether you come in the door after being gone for two minutes to get the mail, or are gone for a few days. It’s true that the longer you are gone, the more intense your greeting will be, but the point is, they don’t have an agenda. They love because they are programmed to love. Dogs will wear clothes. I don’t mean bandanas or, say, life jackets when boating. They allow people to put them in costumes, sweaters, hats, tutus…. Enough said. They can walk into a hospital and by their simple presence grant healing. They are called social therapy dogs but really they are messengers of light. If you gain weight and are hard on yourself, parade in front of your dog because she doesn’t care. She loves food too and is grateful for every meal, snack and treat she can receive. Be reminded by your dog to be gentle with yourself. Dogs lick us to say: “You are the best,” not “see you in twenty pounds.” The list of what unconditional love by a dog really means is truly endless. Those of us who count gazing into our dog’s eyes, stroking their fur and kissing their heads, as a form of meditation, know the accompanying peace that the love of a dog brings. They offer that to us without limit. Their message is just be. ... Read more...
- Flames of advocacy burning brightly
  April 6, 2014Are the flames of animal advocacy inbred or are they fanned by the environment or circumstances that become a call to action? For recent recipient of the 28th Congressional District’s Woman of the Year, Christy Schilling, it is likely a bit of both. Congressman Adam Schiff recognized that Christy is all about doing. When seeds of inspiration blossom in Christy, typically for ways to improve the lives of animals, they grow to fruition at lightning speed. When Christy accepted this honor, she was quick to thank all of those so dedicated to bringing to light issues that impact the well-being, safety and protection of animals; humbly acknowledging that “it takes a village.” This is a philosophy often referred to as a rallying cry of sorts for those in animal rescue; a nod to the networking it often takes to make measurable change for even one animal. That a woman so devoted to the betterment of deserving animals is given recognition as part of the Congressional Record is a big deal. It is a stepping stone upon which a heightened awareness of the diverse needs of deserving animals can build. In 2011, after spearheading the effort to get an ordinance passed to ban the sale of mill animals sold in pet stores in Glendale, California, Christy, Jennifer Krause and Shelley Rizzotti, set their sights on doing the same in Burbank, California where they knew formidable opposition on the City Council was waiting. They founded a group called: CROPS- Citizens for Rescue-Only Pet Stores. Due to the efforts of this organization, and an overwhelming outpouring of community support, an ordinance was successfully passed in Burbank, making it illegal for dogs and cats to be sold in pet stores; it was recognition that this unconscionable practice of perpetuating the sale of tortured mill animals needed to stop. Rescue animals are now waiting for adoption as part of this new business model, and many other communities around the country have followed suit. In 2013, Christy, Jennifer and Shelly joined together to expand their vision to assist animals beyond the work accomplished with the mill ordinances. They created a non-profit, 501-3C organization called: The Animal Protectorates™ known as TAPS. Their tag line: Raising the Bar for Animals succinctly describes their overall mission. Teaching, Advocating, Protecting and Supporting the needs of voiceless animals is the comprehensive axis by which TAPS turns. They address these areas with financial support, guiding citizens toward a greater level of responsibility in their guardianship, and promoting the legal re-classification of animals as something other than property. They are impressively trailblazing and bringing to light legal cases involving cruelty and hoarding, are working to institute an educational program geared toward helping young people make better choices for animals, and have even been rescuing and adopting deserving dogs and cats. Their web site is www.tapsusa.org. Whether the fire that blazes from within, in people like Christy, is organic, innate, or ignites from witnessing an incident or injustice, I am comforted to know that animals thrive on their watch. ... Read more...
- I Know Why, But How?
  March 12, 2014There is a special place in heaven for… We have all heard this phrase at one time or another, each time the sentence is finished with a description of someone who is known for brave, or compassionate acts. It is so comforting and inspiring to know that people with the gift to enhance the lives of others exist; that this lives in all of us each and every day. To those who rescue animals on a daily basis – who network with others to foster, rehabilitate and find homes for deserving animals left homeless, and who literally save animals from harm or dangerous circumstances and bring them to safety, I am indebted. What you do is extraordinary and without your passion and open-heartedness, the homeless pet population would grow from the unconscionable statistic it is to something even more hideous and unfathomable. Many of these organizations are listed on our Friends page and I am in awe of them and the work they do. What is a particular mystery to me is how people reach out to animals surrendered in not only the twilight of their lives, but with significant health issues or injuries, that were essentially left to die alone. I understand why they do it- the act of saving these animals, taking them from empty souls to wagging tails- proving they actually had much life left to live with the outpouring of love and care they receive. The reward has to be beyond comprehension. How they emotionally handle it so often is another matter. One woman in particular, Toby Wisneski, of Leave No Paws Behind, in Sunland, CA, is this very kind of person. Her compassion is so broad it often extends to the family who left their dog behind- she understands the financial devastation and the desperation that can come when caring for oneself and continuing to care for a pet is a one or the other proposition. She gives dogs with often the least chance of ever being rehomed, a true chance to live with joy to the fullest- whether it is for moments or years. I am often impressed to the point of speechlessness when I read updates on her LNPB Facebook page. She and her team of volunteers and veterinary support, are devoted to making sure these animals know their life matters, and in the closing moments of their lives, she makes sure they know unconditional love. I have read where Toby has reached out to families that surrendered their dog, inviting them to say goodbye to the animal when that time comes; she has intervened and facilitated an animal making its way back to its family, technically as a foster, but with Toby’s careful eye and that of the Leave No Paws behind network watching over to be sure all is well. To all the Toby’s out there doing this work, I don’t know what to call what you possess to be able to consistently offer your hearts in this manner, but selflessness may have to do.... Read more...
- Is positivity trending?
  January 30, 2014During the years I have watched American Idol, my favorite part was watching rave reviews cascade upon the contestants who would subsequently run with a ticket to Hollywood in hand to the ecstatic embraces of friends and family. On the other hand, I would cringe uncomfortably when criticism or negative feedback was handed to participants who acted hurt and bewildered as their dream of becoming the new American Idol fell short. While watching the season opener, Jim and I noticed a shift. The footage shared was largely of those goose bump moments when divinely inspired voices emanated from countless uniquely embodied vocal chords, to glowing encouragement from the judging panel. (Jennifer Lopez, Harry Connick Jr. and Keith Urban.) It was a celebration of talent and possibility, of opportunity, and the reward that comes from believing in oneself. Could this be a pop culture sign that a greater shift, a generosity of consciousness is occurring? It brought to mind Brene Brown, the heralded TED talk speaker, successful author and Oprah favorite, who fiercely and intelligently articulates life-altering inspiration in terms most people can understand and relate to. “Dare Greatly,” she says, and enough so to “enter the arena.” Her words fly in the face of those who hide behind their computer keyboards with critical and sometimes anonymous comments left on the internet or social media. For those who smugly shoot daggers with the stroke of a key, it might be wise to experience the vulnerability and strength it takes to try; to walk into whatever arena may call their name and give it their all. These days, it is often a tale of two cities. One realm of society is ever embracing more spiritual teaching and practices, such as yoga and meditation and a mindset that promotes love, acceptance, generosity and the manifesting of dreams. Business, both large and small practice giving back, and I am proud to say that Much More Than Me has done that since the beginning. The other faction of society is cowardly and uses the higher profile venues our current world provides to spread negativity and judgment. I once read a phrase in a Kabbalah book that said: “if your neighbor breaks his leg, it doesn’t mean you will run faster.” I love that. Encouraging others never takes anything away from you. The world is vast yet smaller than ever in our connectedness and accessibility to one another. This is showing up with such love and celebration for some, and with such unfortunate consequence for others. In my opinion, it is a tipping point. I say kudos to all who are daring greatly in their lives whether in the raising of their families, the pursuit of a long-held dream, in experiencing a new peace in their beings, or whatever way makes sense for them. And also, to those who give back however they can. It may be just me hope, but my heart says kindness, love, gratitude and generosity will continue to cast a shadow on that which does not lift us up.... Read more...
- We were here…..
  December 9, 2013My husband Jim came home the other day with some gently used towels, and blankets for a drive he is conducting through his real estate office. We are donating these items to Operation Blankets of Love- a California based organization devoted to bringing necessary items to rescue animals designed to bring comfort and a sense of safety. I was struck by his comment that the most recent donation came from a friend who has seen her share of struggles over the past few years. A beautiful, senior woman with a gift for acting, who has been overseeing the care of some troubled and ill family members, someone who has experienced anguish and significant financial stress, was dropping off items for the animals. Jim knew that she didn’t have extra funds to be spending on these donations, despite how well-received they would be. She told him, “when you fall on hard times, it is even more important to give back.” This is the world I want to inhabit; the melting pot of connection, compassion and generosity where the needs of others is at least as important as our own needs if not more so. When we are hurting emotionally, it is said we should offer that to another person coping with their own pain. If it is financial wealth we are seeking, bring that about in others, be that person who makes this flow of abundance available to those looking for that very thing in their lives. It all seems so simple, but the challenges of life can cloud that clarity, and it often takes someone like Jim’s friend to frame it so succinctly. I have been humming Beyonce’s song: “I Was Here” under my breath a lot lately. I tend to do that- subconsciously, I hum a song that is expressing the notions and ideas rolling around in my head or settling deeply into my heart. As I see this year to a close, with gratitude even for the obstacles that have forced me or others I love to grow, I offer these words that I will take along with me into 2014. May all of you use your blessings and leave personal legacies with your own signature. >I wanna leave my footprints on the sands of time Know there was something that Meant something that I left behind When I leave this world, I’ll leave no regrets Leave something to remember, So they won’t forget I was here… I lived, I loved I was here… I did, I’ve done, everything that I wanted And it was more than I thought it would be I will leave my mark so everyone will know I was here… I want to say I lived each day, Until I die And know that I meant something in somebody’s life The hearts I have touched, Will be the proof that I leave That I made a difference ... Read more...
- The art of Humility in a Changing World
  October 31, 2013If you ask people what their favorite sound is, often you will hear: “the sound of my child’s laugh, or “the rain.” For me, it is the sound of my dog’s crunching their food. It signifies vibrancy and contentment. I welcome it every time and it never fails to create an inner smile in the deepest part of my being. I also love the sound of my daughter’s voices, not to mention their deep and throaty laughs. I got to thinking; some of the very best things in life have nothing to do with technology or the trappings of a fast-paced world. It took me a long time to even own a Facebook, and I’ll admit to owning an I-phone, but don’t ask me about what apps I have because I pretty much use it to text and talk. I am a dinosaur, to a degree, and I don’t really mind it. How do all of us, young or old, embrace a new level of capabilities, expectations, and opportunities that this new age offers? I say, tempered with humility. I hope that by the time the coming generations that will never have known life without a computer, cell phone, ipad, kindle, or any other technological devices that bring instantaneous feedback, will experience the ethics and manners that need to catch up to it. For the baby boomers, like me, we remember things like life without a cell phone or text messaging. It wasn’t nearly as easy to communicate as it is now, but we what did have to learn were patience. We had to plan ahead, strategize a little at times and wait. Those life skills have value. Do I love my cell phone? Absolutely, but it isn’t an appendage. The art of the thank you card, chosen in a store after perusing selections for just the right one, taking the time to write it in long hand and sending it out, is not gone but is often considered an inconvenience. If we are being honest, who doesn’t still like to go to the mailbox and receive a heartfelt card from a grateful loved one? So, maybe we need to be the one who sends it and gives that feeling to someone we care about. And, conversations. Sitting with a friend or family member is still highly valued by most people; looking into their eyes and reading body language that assists us in maintaining the flow of a connection. But, it is often taking a back seat to a quick text or email. Let’s face it, both can often become misunderstood and cause unintended consequences. Social media has its place but it has allowed people to lose their humility. Rudeness that never would have happened between people of differing beliefs or viewpoints if they had to communicate openly and perhaps in person is commonplace. Posting photos to intentionally hurt someone, to have them feel left out or even create jealousy, is so easy to do that I wonder if those who do so forgot just what bad behavior it is, or if they were never taught in the first place? Self- promotion of many kinds has permeated the soul of our constituency; it just depends on the level. Humility reminds us to be interested in others, to let accomplishments and feats stand on their own rather than the endless need or maybe even perceived expectation these days that you must share everything in order to keep up. “Look at me” just doesn’t have quite the ring to it that “I see you” does. It’s not that the old days were the best days, but I just feel we as individuals and as a society have to take a minute. Slowing down doesn’t mean losing ground. Stepping into our actual lives rather than the ones created through technology and social media sounds like progress to me.... Read more...
- Surrender
  September 26, 2013I originally shared this blog in June of this year. I did not know then, that in three months time, we would be easing our little sweetheart’s passage from this earth. Though she amazed all of her vets with how she handled her kidney disease, much like all of the other challenges she faced during her lifetime, the time came to no longer fight for survival, but surrender peacefully; though the pain of our letting go was searing, we were privileged to be her voice to insure it was done respectfully, honorably, and with the purest love we could offer through our grief. We found a kind, soft-spoken veterinarian to help facilitate Legacy’s journey where she was made comfortable at home in a room surrounded by those who adored her most in the world, either physically present or in photos. The agony of her loss has been made bearable by the healing words of family and friends, and for that I am truly grateful. I am certain a spirit as bold as hers lives on- certainly within those of us who cherished her. I hope you will read this original blog and be inspired to adopt; to look into the eyes of a gorgeous rescue animal and say: Come With Me. We’ll have a great life. How does a dog on death row at a shelter in Duluth, Minnesota, become the eager recipient of gluten-free vanilla cupcakes on her 15th birthday? The answer: Rescue, then Adoption. Our pup, that we named Legacy, was born into the world with deformed front legs; a dog that had suffered abuse in the year or so she belonged to the wrong family. Her fate steered in our direction when this stunning beauty, with eyes of brown and gold, that no one wanted, understood or committed to, was brought to a kill shelter and rescued by a young woman who told us she had a Zen-like calm among all of the chaos- who decided it would not be the last place she would know. Our Legacy is a powerhouse of resilience. Life handed her a deck stacked on the high side of adversity. With her misshapen front paws, and an early environment we know little about except Legacy’s behavior, that proved to us her map of mistreatment, we knew that above all, with us, she would experience comfort, advocacy, acceptance and unrestrained love. At this milestone age of 15, 14 years after we adopted her, I can say we have kept our word. Legacy is one of those dogs- the once in a lifetime combination of complexity, grace, and uniqueness of needs that is a privilege to care for and understand. Never a cuddler, we earned her trust in stages, and in allowing us to love on her, she lets her guard down just enough to relax and enjoy the doting. That is a reward in itself. Legacy’s genetic wiring would have taken a less indomitable spirit to a depressed, possibly withdrawn place, but not our girl. She has faced leg surgeries to enhance her mobility, surgeries for the removal of two cancerous spots and that of a benign mammary tumor, a near fatal dog attack that resulted in 28 stitches, low thyroid, allergies, degenerative disc disease and arthritis (in part for having to over-compensate for her front legs), and currently the challenges of kidney disease, not uncommon in graceful senior ladies. By offering Legacy a combination of traditional and alternative therapies for all of these things, and the new addition of a home-cooked diet to keep her appetite sharp, we honor her “can do” attitude every day. This milestone birthday found a happy dog anxious for us to blow out the candles so she could enjoy her cupcake. She, much like most rescue dogs, gives immeasurably more than she gets. She lives simply, doesn’t get in her own way, accepts help when she needs it, and stands in her own power. I love you, angel.... Read more...

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