The response to my
article that ran in the Toronto Star has been amazing. I've been interviewed on a few radio shows this week; have been asked to appear as a public speaker and a lot of interest has been generated for
The Charlie Project. All of those things are wonderful...but what has made the biggest impact on me were the numerous emails that I received. Strangers reaching out who were in some way touched by what I wrote. Strangers who felt a kinship with me and wanted to share their stories. Strangers who took the time to write a note to say thank you. And it truly made my heart soar.
Each email told a very different story, but they were all stories of searching for joy, of dog love, and of never giving up hope. And in a time when so many people are suffering all kinds of losses, to feel that force of hope from those emails....to see how the human spirit continues to rise up and shine...it moved me like nothing in this world has before. So, to all those kind people who emailed me, or left their story as a comment on this blog...thank you. I will carry your stories and your inspirational words with me forever.
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27 comments:
Oh Andrea, I am so happy for you. You deserve every good wish and accolade!
I know that my dogs have literally "saved my life", and I'm so grateful for them, and try to always treat them with love and kindness.
I will NEVER EVER understand how anyone could ever neglect of abuse an animal - in ANY WAY!
I believe that it was Ghandi who said that "You can judge a nation, by the way it's people treat animals". That sure doesn't say much for a lot of people in the US.
I'll get off my soapbox now.
How awesome, congratulations. Your stories are trully wonderful and I enjoy reading them daily. =)
Way to go! You deserve the attention, it is well deserved! Just like Sophie is hopeful you will throw that ball..I am hopeful that you made a difference in all the lives you touched with your article. :)
Your writing is very inspirational. I am not surprised you have touched so many people. We are all very happy for you.
But, Libby, I think that those people are in the minority. I know far more people who are dippy about their dogs.
I'm so happy for you, Andrea. I hope all of this leads to great successes and continued happiness.
Congratulations on the recognitiion you have recieved because of your article. You deserve the accolades! Your article will make so many people more aware and bring together the ones that are. Andrea you have so much to be proud of!
Hi Andrea,
This is wonderful news!! You are certainly worthy of the recognition. Your blog is great and I look forward to reading more of your wonderful dog stories.
What a great article, but even better story. You know what they say about one door closing and another opening. By doing what you love, you have actually achieved more than most people. And all because of a beautiful dog!
Did you ever realize that you could reach so far and so many?
I know you must be excited and a little overwhelmed by all the attention. I hope that it will continue to be a good thing for you and Sophie and all other aspects of your life. Wishing you all things good and great, many blessings!
I saw the messages from different people! That is so cool, having to gain the spotlight!
I'm sure a lot of people would want to do something like The Charlie project too!
It's wonderful to hear of the great reaction to your article. Way to go!
I am more and more amazed by this blogging thing. It is truly making a difference in our world.
What grabbed me in this post were the two photographs. Absolutely unique approaches. Prizewinners.
There is so much negativity in the world -- and in a sense it's for good reason with so many lay-offs, people losing their homes, etc -- so more than ever, I feel that we need inspirational gems that can brighten our days. Your websites are brilliant. I love them and visit daily now that I have found them. Just looking at the dogs featured makes me feel a little better.
I was laid off from a profession I loved last year, one that I did since I was a teen. It was heartbreaking but one of the best things to come out of that sadness is the fact that I now have time to be a puppy mum myself. I'll be getting my baby in time for Mother's Day, and I cannot wait.
That is wonderful.
We are so proud of you and very happy for you too.
LOVED your article and the success couldn't have to come to someone who understands it more.
I read a lot of the comments in the article and I'm sorry for the level of hopelessness and bitterness that exists among some of the writers. I was shocked that so many failed to see the point. Wow. what a statement on why life doesn't open itself to them.
We could all focus on the tragedies of our lives and simply live staring at them. And we all do and have to every once in awhile. But those who rise above use hardship to be shaped by and change their future, or the future of someone else.
Beautifully written and poignant. I'm SO glad you have found your true passion because you are a gifted photographer with those dogs. I've said it before: you capture something that might remain unseen by many. And I love to see what YOU see.
And good for you for staying above the fray and seeing all the new roads and paths opening before you.
BLESSINGS on you and Sophie, your mentor. :)
This is just so wonderful! You are an inspiration to many!
Always nice to get that little "yes, you're on the right path" nudge, isn't it?
That was a great article Andrea. :-)
You are a talented writer.
We went over and read your fantastic article....you deserve all the praise you get for your writing....and your pictures are so beautiful, you really do capture the soul and spirit of dogs both in words and photographs.
Congratulations xx
Andrea, that is SO COOL. CONGRATS on your recognition for this project!!! It is such a fabulous project, I'm so glad that people are reaching out to you. So impressive!!
I am very happy for you. So great to be appreciated. Helps the self confidence I am sure. You deserve it.
You are a blessing. Thank you for your hope, spirit and love for animals. My life is so much better because of mine, and I see your home is equally blessed.
:)
Excellent news Andrea! The beauty of your writing and photography have been discovered!
You and Sophie are an inspiration!
That top photo is awesome, and congratulations!!
Dear Andrea,
I understand you so well and have100% praise for your life changes and values clarification. My 81 year old Mom also understands you well! She lives in Unionville and sent your story to me here in Richmond, BC!! BTW, I grew up in Markham.
The reason we understand you is that I quit a corporate prison in 2006. I didn't know what I was going to do next but I wasn't going to spend my life being bullied by an ungrateful GM while toiling away in a cubicle. Aren't we crazy by the job choices we make?!?! Anyway ... long story short ... I wrote a story about what I did after quitting the corporate nightmare and it is now being turned into a short play going on stage in Oct 09. If you are interested, my short story is called "In the Arms of The Fraser" and can be read on my website About us. http://www.wholebeingyoga.com/about.php
It is truly amazing what comes forward when we have the courage to be open and aware of what really matters. My very best wishes to you and your 4 and 2 legged pals!
Paula Craig
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