I, like millions of others am deeply saddened and angered by the execution of Cecil the lion. I volunteered in South Africa on a big five
game reserve and spent time with lions daily. They are more majestic and regal
in person than one could imagine. The thought of intentionally killing one of
these creatures is beyond repugnant. Cecil's story has had some positive
outcomes, however. It has brought a newfound awareness of trophy hunting, it has united a global community and opened the door to
discussions of how to better protect lions in the future.
Cecil may be gone but his death is not in
vain. How many people would have signed a petition to ban trophy hunting of
lions two weeks ago without Cecil's story going global? Cecil's death implored
hundreds of thousands of people to do just that. By week's end that number will
easily climb to over a million.
Cecil's death has brought together people
from around the world, from nearly every culture, religion and country to band
together. Pretty powerful that one lion can untie us all in love. Thank you Cecil for showing us how alike we
all are and the unlimited power of human compassion. Cecil's story even made hilarious comedian, Jimmy Kimmel shed a tear on live TV.
This one act by one man and one hunting
organization in a tiny pocket of the world has brought enormous awareness to
the plight of lions. Cecil's death will inevitably save many other lions from
meeting the same fate. It has to. It will. The majority has spoken. Innovative ideas are
circulating as to how we can better protect lions.
Cecil's story will have a lasting impact. It has shown
us, the super predators of this fragile planet how me may be better in
protecting those that need protecting. May justice run it's course and may this also offer us the opportunity for
radical forgiveness.
Thank you for making his memory honored - may he rest in peace.
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