Our most recent educational presentation was at the library for 26 children & some of their parents. (This was on July 18, 2007) Our message could be applied to ANY pet, because it is one of responsibility & commitment. When we did our origional gig there in 2005, some of the parents didn't want us to come. They told the librarian they were afraid their kids would come home WANTING one of those smelly things!!! Judy assured them that Zoo would do exactly the OPPOSITE!!! Some came, just to see. They were shocked when I asked the kids (ranging in age from 6 to 12) "How would you feel if you were driving somewhere with your mom, & suddenly she said "Ya know what? I'm TIRED of cooking your meals! I'm TIRED of doing your laundry! I'm TIRED of taking care of you when you're sick!!! I think I'll just open the car door & put you out in the road!! GO AWAY!!!" I then took Marjorie out of her carrier---and as she began to kiss my face, I went on to say "This little girl was found dumped in an outdoor toilet. Her owner just didn't want her anymore. Can you imagine how frightened she was, struggling & dirty and trying to escape? Fortunately, somebody saw her down there, rescued her, & brought her to us. And we made her a promise. No one will ever hurt her,or leave her again!!" During our first library talk, I asked the kids how many of their parents were divorced. 12 kids out of 18 raised their hands. I told them my parents had been divorced too--and then I asked them if they knew what the word "commitment" meant. No hands came up. I talked about being there for your pet, your family, your friend,--and eventually your spouse--no matter what. I told them that their pets would teach them some of life's most important lessons, if they would only listen. Marjorie continued to lick my face--and later allowed the kids, one by one, to hold her, & pet her. The little eight year old, who had tears in her eyes back then, asked about Marjorie now, two years later, on the 18th. I told her that our sweet little Marjorie was now gone. She had lost her battle with cancer, but had lived each day to the fullest, & had died surrounded with love. No one ever abandoned her again. We had kept our promise to her--and it's a promise we make each one...The little girl whispered "Commitment" --and petted Omega, who was there for the presentation... Reach out to the kids--I do believe they are our answer. Love, Zoo [Posted in FML 5727]