By M. Jane Hocking, New Mexico
When we were younger and living in Alaska, my husband and I had sled dogs. He did some racing, but I never really enjoyed running a team. With beautiful scenery and my dog buddies, mushing should have brought joy, not a heavy lump of dread in my gut. But I loved raising puppies, training lead dogs, and finding and clearing old trails, so I concentrated on those tasks related to sledding.
By Jonker Tomasoa, The Netherlands
Years ago, my wife and I paid a visit to a dear friend and her family in Kenya. It was our first time in that country. When my friend married four years earlier, I was her best man. Although we are not related, she called me Abang, which means brother in the Malay language.
By Jamie Obakponovwe, Minnesota
While settling into the rhythm of a new job and home, my husband and I adopted two kittens who were sisters, Wilma and Luisa. Instantly they brightened our lives and gave us constant, unconditional love—each in her own special way.
By Mark Brooks, California
Our beloved Fluffy came into our lives as a stray kitten. She was a beautiful calico tabby with piercing yellow-green eyes and a tiny splotch of orange on the top of her head. She simply showed up one day in our backyard in the late summer and never left! (She chose us!)
By Russell Henderson, Oregon
The horse who became my cherished friend had helped me heal from the loss of my wife. How would Divine Spirit guide me through saying good-bye to him?
By Alex Mendiola, Ontario, Canada
Life gave me an unexpected gift that changed my consciousness and my life completely. A dog was about to teach me that dogs are Soul too and reincarnation is real.