I Am An Animal Rescuer My job is to assist God's creatures I was born with the need to fulfill their needs I take in new family members without plan, thought 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 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 animals in Heaven But I believe there are! Why would God make something so perfect and leave it behind? We may be 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 humankind We are a quiet but determined army, And 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 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 In the game of life, I have already won! ~ Annette King Tucker ~ Perhaps it's not how we live, but rather how we can help others in the time allocated to us that is important at the end of the day.