Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?

-Matthew 6:26, NKJV

Animals can teach us a lot.

I sit here writing as my parrot buddy is preening himself on my computer. He is very excited to share time with me. I am “his person.” It is very gratifying to have a feathered creature want me.

Animals often treat humans better than humans treat other humans.

They don’t lie and dissemble. Our pets are just who they are. If they don’t like you, they will let you know. Also, they will love you for food. They are not bashful about that. Their behavior is generally transparent.

In a particularly satisfying exchange with my former mother-in-law, I remember talking about my cat at the time. She tried mocking me asking me if I needed my cat to take care of me.

I retorted, “That cat has been more faithful to me than your daughter.” It was more true than I could have imagined in that moment.

I will forever be grateful for the animals in my life. Pets are such gifts from God teaching us about love and fidelity. They may be pains at time, but they truly enrich our lives.

And yes, our pets are probably far more faithful to us than our cheaters ever were to us!