Pets Corner: A Sanctuary

In the busy city scape, nestled between the concrete and steel, exists a small haven—a place of serenity and harmony, a sanctuary affectionately dubbed the Pets Corner. A mosaic of vibrant life, the Pets Corner, is an integral part of the life that throbs within my community. Home to a delightful assortment of animals, it serves not just as a refuge for our fur-laden companions but for us humans alike.

One glorious early morning, I take a moment from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and decide to visit the nook. As I open the gate, I am greeted by the familiar symphony of sounds—the chirping of the birds, the conversing ducks, the laughter of children, and the strident chirrs of the guinea pigs. Each animal has its own distinct persona, endearing, charismatic, and unique in its own way.

The patrons are just as diverse as our animal compatriots. Parents are teaching the young ones to appreciate and understand the nature of life around them. A grandmother throws crumbs of bread into an iridescent pool of eager ducks. A young man gently combs the fluffy mane of an Irish Shetland pony, each stroke revealing a bond which transcends species. There’s an unspoken connection, a mutual respect, and understanding that exists within this special corner of the world.

Among them, Tilda, a majestic turtle, is a spectacle of her own. With her celebrated poise and the wise gaze of deep-set eyes, she is truly a queen in her aquatic realm. She slowly emerges from her sheltering shell and sets off to an unhurried start, leaving a trail of marvelling bystanders in her wake—adults and kids alike, all enthralled by her dignity.

I can see Mrs. Smith, a regular visitor who often comes cozily wrapped in her knitted attire, sitting quietly on her favorite bench. She is gazing lovingly at a bunch of bunnies that she has reared over the years, nestled safely in her lap. Occasionally, she feeds them baby carrots and, in return, receives their excited thumping and twitching noses as signs of gratitude. It’s a heartwarming serenade of love and compassion, performed silently yet loudly resonating throughout the sanctuary.

Towards the back, oblivious to the surrounding chaos, Bonbon, the Angora cat, lounges on his perch. He appears regal, almost godlike, as he surveys his kingdom from above. Occasionally, he would grace the underlings with his presence, walking amidst the excited flock of guinea pigs and puppies, with swishes of his resplendent white fur—a spectacle not easily forgotten.

The nostalgia in the air is palpable as the sanctuary is set against the backdrop of the late afternoon sun. The hues of the sky showcase an artist’s palette—the vibrant oranges, soft pastel hues reflecting off the calm pond. Kids running around, parents chasing after them, the compassionate volunteers looking after the wellbeing of all, the place buzzes in harmonious chaos.

As I walk out of the gate of Pets Corner, my heart is heavy yet filled with the warmth of spent love. It’s a part of life, a significant fragment of my existence. Not a mere sanctuary for animals but a sanctuary for the soul, where life takes a moment to breathe and relish in the unfettered joy of compassionate existence. Every detail, every sound, every moment in this corner is a testament to the beauty and balance of life and home to many enchanting tails (and tales).