Nearly everyone considers the Garuda Aviary Parrot Rescue to be a great thing. The Aviary cares for over 40 parrots and other large birds that have been abused, abandoned or neglected, and visitors to the temple are always impressed with the birds. We get lots of praise for the Aviary, but how many of us actually take part in supporting this meritorious activity?
It is hard work, taking care of that many hungry mouths every day. They eat a lot, and they have to eat every day. It costs a lot of money just to feed them. When the money runs out, they still have to eat. We can’t skip a few days until we get some more money. A generator is also needed for the Aviary to keep the temperature safe for the birds when the power goes out, which it does sometimes. Right now there is only one person actually taking care of the parrots. They need a lot of attention. They’re like two-year olds that live 80 years or more. There is very little money coming in, despite the widespread interest. The plain truth is that the donations don’t match the praise.
There are many ways that each of us can help with the Aviary. If you don’t know how you can help, ask. Call Claire Waggoner at 928-713-3522 or email garudaaviary@earthlink.net if you want to find out how you can help or to volunteer. You can also make a cash donation here: http://www.garudaaviary.org/financial_donations.html. Even just taking a donation can home to put your spare change in helps.
Perhaps we should ask ourselves if we still have the ability to love. These sentient beings need us. Their very lives depend on us. We have the power and the means to give them what they need. Can we look inside ourselves and find the love that can accomplish that? Because that’s the only way it’ll happen.
