Judy’s granddaughter enjoying a moment with a butterfly
Animals: God’s Gift
My friend, Judy Ridenhour, is a fun loving person who enjoys life on a quiet street in a small community in NC. Wearing many hats, she’s a wife, mother, grandmother, neighbor and friend.
Some of Judy’s friendships began when she was a child growing up in a close-knit neighborhood on the east side of Salisbury, NC. Although I didn’t grow up with Judy, I’ve known her for years, and yet, it was only recently that I learned about a special “trait” she has.
Admiring animal pictures Judy posted on Facebook a couple of months ago, I sent her a message saying how beautiful they were. She sent a message back saying not only does she love animals, but she loves taking pictures of them in their natural habitat. Inviting me to her home for a chat not long after that, I wondered what she wanted to share.
Hesitant at first, Judy finally opened up about having a rapport with animals that started when her husband, Ronnie, cut down a tree near their backyard. When Ronnie cut the tree down he didn’t realize a nest of baby squirrels were tucked away in one of its branches, so as a result, the squirrels were misplaced. Nurturing the squirrels through the winter months, when they were strong enough, Judy let them go, only to discover they stayed close by as if knowing they were safe.
Sharing other experiences she’s had through the years with animals, Judy said she even has a rapport with hummingbirds. When hearing hummingbirds often come to the feeder while she’s holding it in her hands, my mouth dropped open. Wondering why they trust her so much, she said, “It’s simple. I spend time with them, so they sense I care.”
Thinking about that philosophy, it occurred to me this works not only for building trust with animals, but people too. In the final analysis, that may be Judy’s secret to life long friendships; spending time with them, they sense she cares.
Before our visit ended, Judy explained her love for animals now extends to other family members, including two granddaughters. As you can see in the photo, one of her granddaughters is having a close encounter with a butterfly.
To read more about Judy’s experiences with animals and why she believes they are a gift from God, check out the Salisbury Post website.
Do you know someone who has a special rapport with animals? If so, leave a comment, message on Facebook or email dicysm@yahoo.com
Thanks,
Dicy
www.dicymcculloughbooks.com/blog
