I'm not saying if you don't "rescue" an animal from a shelter you're any less of a human. One must be attentive to what is necessary to give proper care for a new addition to the household, and not all living situations can do that. However, if we can't rescue or protect an animal, at least we can demonstrate qualities pertaining to the act of rescuing. To be human means to be courteous, friendly, and kind. We have the power to always choose compassion for and to all living beings. The Royal Humane Society (founded 1774) was originally set up to rescue drowning persons, later it evolved into administering animal care. So at the very least we all can be humane whether we actually adopt a new pet or not.
Just yesterday, I posed a 'pause and ponder' question to the students in my Honors Literature class. They were to consider this: "A human's greatest attribute is his or her intellect." All but one disagreed. I would also disagree. What is a human's greatest attribute? In my opinion, it is the degree by which we show tenderness and compassion. It is to help others take heart, to relieve suffering when we encounter it. It is to do our part to be humane in the truest sense of the word. It is to have the spirit and heart of a rescuer to those in need...to give to the "least" among us.
Meet Lucy! Last Sunday I adopted her and she not only moved into my house, but moved in and rescued a part of MY heart.