Wednesday, April 21, 2010

Clean, Cool and Composed

We went to Busch Gardens while my family was in town. My daughter-in-love took these wonderful pictures of a tiger. He's beautiful, right?



He's clean, tended, fed and has everything but his freedom. How do you all feel about zoos and places like this?


My feelings are mixed. For the big animals, I'm kind'a sad. They can't run and fulfill their role in the wild. But for the little animals, or endangered ones, it might be a good thing.


"I run in the path of your commands, for you have set my heart free." Psalm 119:32


As a follower of Christ, do I sit in my cool, clean tended house built by my mind and selfishness? Am I beautiful to me, but not fulfilling my purpose to others in the world? Do I watch the world pass me by, knowing I'm taken care of, but not caring for them? If so, my heart is not free, and I'm not following His path.


May I not be afraid to get sweaty, dirty and lean.


Photos: Melissa Evans






5 comments:

Hilary said...

Gorgeous creature, isn't he? My feelings are mixed too. I thoroughly dislike seeing an animal caged and restricted. I know that many zoos do their best to make the animal's lives enjoyable but too many care little for the animal's welfare and more for the revenue it brings them. On the other hand, countless children have the opportunity to observe animals that they'll never in their lives have the chance to see otherwise. If a zoo is run well, with the animal's welfare and general safety placed ahead of all else, it can be a wonderful learning experience.

Kindred Heart Writers said...

Oh Karen I feel the same way about caged animals and I have the same feelings sometimes in my heart. Am I just letting the world pass by? Good post. Love to youClella

Jeanette Levellie said...

Wow. I love how you can find a lesson in everything, Karen. I wonder about this, too. Am I fulfilling my call, or just being pristine and secure?

I'm not wild about zoos, but I enjoy animals.

Dave said...

A beautiful big cat Karen. I feel sure that it has ample freedom in it's 'run.' It looks contented enough. Well done Melissa for these photos. - Dave

Karen said...

Hilary, I agree with you. I know I would never see one of these majestic creatures if not for zoos and such.

Clella, be careful and safe on your drive back north. I have never seen you just let the world pass by. :)

Jeanette, I like the zoos, only to see what I would never see otherwise. God made some amazing creatures!

Dave, yes, he is content and better cared for than in the wild, I'm sure. I'll pass along your praise to Melissa. :)