I’m living parallel story lines in my personal life and my Rescue life. Both of these story lines are unfolding at their own pace, despite how much I might try to control them. Patience was never my strong suit. Some people like to brag about how few effs they give or how unfiltered they are; I was always quick to tout my quick fuse. That trait was of little value, other than some entertainment of course, so I’ve been working my self-improvement make-shift program to channel those energies into something more positive. I spent much of the summer patting myself on the back for just how patient I was with this personal life story line. I know that I show up and I do my part immediately as it is warranted. Expecting the same from others (individuals, businesses, and municipalities) has resulted in a range from disappointment to frustration, with the occasional pleasant surprise sprinkled in the mix. Just send good vibes and you’ll be alerted when all of my patience has paid off… sorry for the vagueness. Just know that, even as I type this, things are progressing.
In Rescue life, some of the team has reached out to their legislators, proposing that Long Island follow suit with NYC, Chicago, Boston, LA, etc. and ban the sale of domestic rabbits. Yes, there are volunteers who disagree with this idea. And they are allowed to feel that way. But for me, I am a data collector. I reflect on that data. I do some, albeit informal, analysis of that data. In 2016 alone, we’ve been contacted via email about over 400 unwanted, abandoned, neglected and abused rabbits in our two counties. Whenever possible, I ask the source of these unwanted buns. The answer is always a pet store or a breeder. Always. Add to this 400, the rabbits about whom we are contacted on social media, via phone, contacts to individual volunteers and, of course, the ones we plain just don’t hear about… the number will surely reach 1,000 by the close of 2016, if it hasn’t already. You don’t have to be alarmed by this… but I am. And I’m doing something about it.
Amazingly, we’ve already made progress! I received a phone call from the aide of a local legislator last week. Because of our efforts, rabbits, guinea pigs and hamsters were added to a proposed bill in Suffolk County that will regulate the sale of cats, dogs and the aforementioned animals. This isn’t a ban, but it is progress. This progress will protect those who are sold in pet stores. This progress will put an end to the harsh, neglectful situations that some animals face while waiting to be purchased. This progress holds those who do sell animals accountable for the treatment of what they deem as product, what I deem as living, loving beings. To me, animals are not a commodity. I fully acknowledge that they are to some people and I’m not looking to argue that. I’m just here to dance in the metaphorical confetti raining down on me and the squad who are advocating for the safety of domestic rabbits across this island and around this world.
So, it’s about progress, steps. The personal life situation will work itself out, as long as the bunny-daddy and I keep doing our part… and staying on top of those other parties who need to do their parts as well! And the Rescue life situation… I am overjoyed to be a part of a step in the right direction. I just got off of the phone with the Legislator who is helping us advocate. I’m proud to know her and proud to be a part of the progress she’s making. Just do the next right thing, my friends. Much love.
Grab your party hats and celebrate progress!