A few years ago, I was working in a very impoverished region of Chihuahua, Mexico doing a week-long clinic of free spay/neuter and veterinary care {read more about that clinic here: http://cwob.org/spaycampjune2007.html} . As always, the days were very long, the conditions difficult, and the amount of animals in need completely overwhelming.

By day four of these clinics, fatigue sets in and I tend to find myself a bit more fragile and sensitive than usual.  As we were closing up a Boxer dog was brought to us in very poor conditions. Starving, covered in scabs, very weak.

Tragic, in every sense of the word.

My heart  broke into a million pieces staring into

the depressed eyes of that dog who was suffering so intensely, had been for so long, slouching before me with a  silent resignation to the existence he had been born into.

Admittedly, heart break  is a big part of the work that we do.  Yet, it is that very suffering which compels and drives us.

Mother Teresa has a beautiful quote wherein she says “May God break my heart so completely that the whole world falls in.”

I have always found that to be a compelling viewpoint, that a broken heart can mean a more spacious one, having been cracked by tragedy but then left wide open enough to fit whomever, whatever may need us inside.

And then, you can begin to pick up the pieces and mend.

For Compassion without Borders, that mending involves a fierce dedication to addressing the root of suffering through prevention, humane education, rescue and grassroots outreach.

Suffering can either paralyze you or it can spark an unparalleled force for change and reform.

My Valentine’s wish for each of you is that you join me in opening up your heart wide enough to include the animals of Mexico and help me to bring about the change needed to help them.

Here’s how to help:

*   Join our email list so we can keep you updated on the progress of our work.

*      Share our stories and this blog with your social network so more help can join us in helping animals in need.

*      Donate items from our Wish List that directly benefit animals such as the Boxer who is finally receiving care because of supporters like you.

*      Make a financial donation to help us continue our work