Animal respect through myth

A look at the lessons we can learn from myth in regard to the treatment of animals.

Animals hold a great place in ancient myths. Many early religions of various cultures associate with animals in one form or another. It may be a friendship, a mixture of man and animal or a battle between them. The Hindu mythology of Hanuman and Aditi are examples of how man in the early days of our civilization revered our living counterparts.

Sometimes it seems that these animals do not get the respect that they so need. In some ways I consider myself to be an animal activist. Wanting to see that others are treated fairly whether they be fury or not. It almost seems that in this day in age that our view of animals are for solely two things: Entertainments and food. Don't get me wrong though very seldom will you find meat on my plate I will not judge someone else (like my husband) for having the meat lovers supreme. Life needs life to sustain itself and I believe in balance.

Looking at Native American cultures for example there were animals that were sacred and were also hunted for meat (such as the buffalo). Even though we may not all be vegetarians we should also take into consideration the animals that are around us and treat them with the kindness that they deserve. Dog is man's best friend but yet take a look at the animal shelters in your neighborhood. How many incarnations of our best friend have been put there because we haven't been a good friend.

Animals can be wonderful creatures and may not mind helping us out with our day-to-day tasks such as the cow in India. However for all of the joy and love that they can give us they deserve a little bit of respect and kindness. Perhaps through taking heed of the myths from our ancestors we can learn to hold some more respect for them.