My Aunt Charlene taught me at an early age that an animal will come to you when they are ready. I spent hours half asleep under her bed waiting for her cats to maybe come to me. Her dogs could step outside when they needed space.

They communicated their needs without effort. Her kids showed me it was cool to grow up and be happy. Seeing an animal lean into a life that makes sense for them is the reason I do what I do. I live to hear soft sighs and loud snores. I think

it’s holy to watch someone let go of a past that may not have served them well and learn to simply be.

The C in MCP to me stands for community and compassion. This pack of kind warriors that Marta has gathered inspires me all day every day. To be soft in this world is hard. We cry as much as we laugh. It is my honor and privilege to wake

up every day and know that we, as a collective, can and do make a difference. We roll up our sleeves and show up with love in our hearts. We show up for each other. We show up for our dogs.