Honoring the Interdependent Web: A Call to Care for Animals

Our affirmation of faith mentions serving humankind but also mentions doing this so all souls can grow closer to the Divine.  However, referring to spirits as humankind excludes an important category of living beings.

A person gently pets a sheep through a wooden fence, enjoying a peaceful moment of connection with the animal.

These are animals. Just like us humans, they feel various emotions and physical sensations. They experience love and hate as well as pain and pleasure.

Furthermore, one of our eight principles calls us to respect the interdependent web we are a part of.  This includes animals. So caring for them should be part of our faith.

This brings up an important question. How should we incorporate care and concern for animals into our spiritual practices?

This can be done in one or more of many varied ways. One option is to lobby county, state, and federal governments for change in the laws concerning animals. For example, you can organize and participate in protests for cases concerning animals. You can also submit petitions either online or through the mail.

Another way to help the cause of animal rights and welfare is to be mindful of the purchases one makes. Becoming vegetarian or vegan is the best way to do this but even if you don't want to become vegetarian or vegan, you can still shop mindfully to ensure that animals are treated well. For example, you can buy cruelty-free cleaning, cosmetic, and personal care items. You can also buy less meat and make sure the meat you do buy is obtained from animals allowed to roam.

I hope this article has been informative and encourages you to reflect on how your actions affect animals.