View of Assisi from the road photo by pandionhiatus3
“If you have men who will exclude any of God’s creatures from the shelter of compassion and pity, you will have men who will deal likewise with their fellow men”
– Francis of Assisi
The Feast of St. Francis of Assisi and World Animal Day
Narrow street in Assisi, Italy. photo by Tinieder
Today we celebrate the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals. It is also appropriately and perhaps because of St. Francis that we celebrate World Animal Day.
This day, in many ways, might be just like every other day for most of us, meaning we love and care for animals every day. But today, maybe we can take a moment to think about our love for the animals in our families. And also about all animals that share our world and what we can do for them.
Take a Moment to Reflect on Your Love For Animals
I’ve walked the streets of Assisi. This is one of my favorite places. What’s not to love about the ancient city on top of the hill, with breathtaking views, great food and the home of Francis Bernardone, St. Francis of Assisi.
Assisi archway. photo by shippee
Today most of us will not have the opportunity to walk the narrow streets of Assisi, Italy to follow the footsteps of St. Francis but we can do little things that add up to big things that make a difference for others.
Maybe you could say a little prayer, or drop off a bag of food or a toy at a shelter, write a letter in protest of the mistreatment of animals, or just tell a friend about the the need for all of us to take action and care for animals.
Maybe you just scoop up your little loved one and take a little extra time today to express your love and appreciation for your friendship.
Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi at sunset in Assisi, Italy. Photo by pandiohiatus3
And maybe you can do the same to your fellow humans today. Just be a little bit more patient, kind and understanding. Today and every other day, we can continue to try.
“Start by doing what is necessary, then do what’s possible, and suddenly you are doing the impossible”
-Francis of Assisi
Beautiful. Am sure our momma would love to go there to see it in person, but that will never happen. Thanks to you, she gets to see these beautiful pictures and read the wonderful stories behind them. Thank you fur sharing with us. xoxoxo Dancer and the SDR Clan
You never know what might happen! Thank you so much for reading our post and for being a good friend of The Tiniest Tiger community.
I just read this post and immediately forwarded the link to my family because I was so compelled to share it with my loved ones. I have tears in my eyes from the most beautiful sentiments and images you share here. I read many, many blog posts yet I am not sure any have been so thoroughly moving or so eloquently able to touch my soul. Thank you so much for this. I believe there is a special place in heaven for the saints on earth like you who do so much to help all of God’s creation, and who inspire others to do the same.
Amy, Thank you so much for reading our post. Your kind words are truly appreciated. Thank you for loving all animals too.