A prayer of gratitude for the animals who accompany

When I reflect on the past month and a half filled with grief and loss, I find the most meaningful comfort in my life is something that’s shared by so many friends, family and community members. That comfort comes from the love our furry family companions give to us so generously.

Whether we are doing our part on the front lines or by staying home in isolation, animals inside and outside of our homes bring so much joy at a time when the world needs it the most. These charming, kind souls have stepped up to the plate as emotional support animals to us all. I encourage the community to echo that love back to our pets through long walks, play time, treats and chin scratches.

My prayer is for the animals, especially our pets, for they bring us comfort and stability as we brave our ever-changing reality.

A Prayer of Gratitude for the Animals Who Accompany

Dearest Saint Francis, Patron Saint of Animals,

You recognized how precious all animals were to our world.
Look after our kind and gentle furry friends from above.
Keep them safe from this virus so they can continue to be a vibrant definition of our emotional support.

For our charming, furry brothers and sisters who are part of our families living in our homes,
support their intuition as they sit by our sides when we struggle with anxiety and fear –
we need them fiercely.

Encourage our outdoor friends to celebrate the quiet streets and enjoy the fresh air
as it becomes less polluted. It was their world first.

Send song birds to wake us in the morning
and visit us by the windows as we look out from captivity.

Guide the bees to pollinate the flowers and trees
while we hope these showers bring May flowers.

Let the eagles soar above to keep an eye on our parks and beaches
as they remain closed to humankind.

We are so grateful to be given these innocent, kind, and generous creatures
that provide daily distractions from our worries and woes.

Watch over these sweet souls for they give us a level of comfort
we are unable to find elsewhere.
Keep them strong hearted and by our sides
so we may soon celebrate the return to normal together.

Amen.

Offered by Mary Beth Pelletier, Office of Mission Integration (April 29, 2020)

Each Monday and Wednesday, SALVEtoday will provide a prayer or reflection for the University community to reflect upon during this time of remote living and learning. #salvesgotthis #wellnesswednesdays