In 2009, The New York Times, featured a collection of interviews, in each the subjects story was paired with photographs–all lovely vignettes of the individuals New York life–the Times called it, One IN 8 MILLION.
So many of the stories were just remarkable, “ordinary people people telling extraordinary stories,” but one in particular stayed with me. When it comes to children and animals I simply have zero tolerance for people who bring harm to either. What I love about this story however–is it sheds light on something we all need more of–the story of rescue.
And on days when the world seems plain mad, I reach for this beautiful woman’s story the way one might grab a sweater to wrap the warmth they have inside a little bit tighter to their heart, for hers is a brilliant reminder that good exists.
Interviewed by Alexis Mainland and Photographed by Todd Heisler, Stefanie Rinza describes her passion for the rescuing of animals. She has rescued and found homes for about 40 abandoned animals of all kinds, including her own four dogs and birds.
This morning, when I once again watched the pictures fade in and out on the screen and listened to Stefanie’s beautiful melodic voice describe how her first dogs came into her life, I reclaimed a slice of inner-peace. Clearly she is a woman who feels deeply for living creatures that have been abandoned. As it has in the past, the story pierced me again. Something about it begs me to play it more than once. Only the second time, I closed my eyes.
Her words funneled through me, then these rose to the surface to stay…
If I see something, I can’t let it go. If I see a bird with a broken wing flapping around and no one is making a grab for it…I then couldn’t live with myself having left someone like that.
What I love is when someone has been rescued and when they come here and they’ve had their first sleep and curl up. And after everything they’ve been through they’re willing to trust someone and give them their love and devotion.”
Living creatures deserve a chance at real love and Stefanie’s story can be applied to animals and people alike, all worthy of both giving and receiving love.
Imagine the ripple effect that would be created if we all approached the struggle of a living creature the way Stefanie Rinza does, as if there was nothing more valuable then one’s ability to trust and feel safe, I dare say it would be enormous.
It all begins with awareness. When we open our eyes and hearts to someone or something that needs our hand, needs our compassion, needs our help–and then we give it–our little corner of the world begins to heal.
I can’t even listen to Sarah MacLachlan sing “Angel” on those animal rescue commercials without bursting into tears so I totally hear you. Stefanie Rinza sounds like a true angel and, yes, we should all be willing to help any living creature in need. What an inspiring story.
Thanks Lois. And I am with you sniffing along with “Angel.”
Growing up, my dad was always bringing home stray dogs to join our family. He even made his rounds to the county dumpsters to leave food for the ones that wouldn’t come to him. I inherited his soft spot for rescuing animals. It drives my husband crazy, but it’s what I do. Lying in my lap right now is a hound mix who spent over a year in a cage. She was so badly damaged when I got her, she wouldn’t come out from under the house. Now she’s spoiled, pampered and sleeps in the bed with my son. Animals are a gift, teaching us loyalty, empathy, forgiveness and so many things lacking in our world today.
I love this comment Angela, I can picture your hound-mix in your lap, so sweet. Animals are a gift and they are wonderful teachers. Thank you.
“I reach for this beautiful woman’s story the way one might grab a sweater to wrap the warmth they have inside a little bit tighter to their heart, ” such wonderful imagery. I love the way you express your thoughts and I love the thought behind this post.
Thank you Jamie. 🙂
I love my rescue dogs…both of them. One was actually from Heaven can wait and their program called Puppies on parole. Hudson was a puppy in the prison system with an inmate who had to train him. I can’t think about her….I cry thinking of when she had to give him back…how much loneliness in prison? And she had a dog…..and had to give him back. I hate thinking about it.