The Rescuer

Standing alone, dressed in jeans, sneakers and
a plaid overshirt, topped with a baseball cap.
She stood by the waters edge. I thought perhaps
to rest. Then I saw her reach down to the earth
and grasp a large satchel. We were aware of each
other's presence, but we did not speak due to the
distance between us.

Several days later we met each other walking in
opposite directions along a footpath. She was
dressed in the same clothes. which I recognized
more than her being. In her hand she carried the
large satchel. It was not new and not attractive but
functional for its purpose.

Upon seeing her, I inquired "Are you testing the
water?" She hesitated for a second while glancing
at the two dogs I was walking. She told me she
came to feed the abandoned kittens. She had
rescued four so far and had every intension of
continuing her mission. To feed and find homes
for these fluffy creatures by the waters edge where
they searched for warmth among the tall grasses
and the sun's rays.

Little did the homeless kittens know the warmth
of this lady dressed in jeans, plaid overshirt and
baseball cap.

Without further conversation we walked our
separate ways. It was comforting to know a
tender heart searched and found small kittens
and chose to tend their needs.

Strange isn't it how often we see someone
and assess their being. We form opinions on
appearances. Ignorant of the purpose of ones
actions. This shabbily dressed woman made
me pause and think. I am grateful to have met
her. Pleased that I took the time to speak with her.
Ever so thankful ,for her tender mission as a self
imposed rescuer. A lovely soul that placed lost
kittens into new homes.

Think of the happiness she shared simply because
she took the time to care.

written by Pauline
copyright 2006