At a time when we talk about the environment, ecology, and sustainable world, think about how many creatures in the world have exemplified the importance of living in harmony with the environment.

Even because we, human beings, are part of the same environment. Let's remember Francis of Assisi, who, in the thirteenth Century, had extreme care with the animals.

Wild animals, mistreated by others, used to flee to him. In his presence, they could find refuge.

Lambs were often freed from the threat of death because of his compassion. He used to remove worms from the road to prevent them from being crushed by the passers-by.

He called all animals brothers and sisters.

His biographers narrate, with slight changes of form and content, that one day he was returning to Assisi and stopped on the road about ten miles from the city.

He was disgusted with the indifference of many people. He announced that he would probably be heard with more respect by birds.

He saw a crowd of birds: pigeons, crows and magpies.

He walked towards them, leaving his companions on the road. When he was very close to the birds he greeted them:

May the Lord give you peace.

He was surprised that the birds did not fly. They stirred, turned their necks and stood there waiting.

Joyfully Francis asked them to listen to his words and said:

My brothers birds, you should praise your Creator. And love Him forever.

He gives you feathers to wear, wings to fly and everything you need.

God gives you a home in the purity of the air. And while you do not plant or harvest He Himself protects you and cares.

The birds spread their wings and beaks and continued looking at him.

Francis passed among them, touching their heads and bodies with his tunic.

When he finished his speech, he blessed them and gave them permission to fly to another place.

Some will say that this is a legend. But it is common knowledge that certain men and women have a natural bond with animals.

People without any special training, too often seem to know the gestures or tones that are reassuring to animals.

And the animals feel sympathy, kindness, good will and respond to it in ways sometimes considered wonderful.

What emerges is the fact that with his attitude, Francis taught that all creatures on Earth deserve respect.

He taught love for nature and that we can establish links with all living beings.

Think about it because we have learned that everything in nature is linked together by bonds that can not yet grasp.

And let's support as much as possible the animal protection movements and organizations, through acts of christian generosity and human understanding.

Remember: the light of good must shine in all plans.

Spiritist Moment Team, based on ch. Oito(1209-1210) of the book Francisco de Assis, o santo relutante, by Donald Spoto, published by Objectiv; in item 604 of  O livro dos Espíritos, by Allan Kardec, published by Feb and on ch. 33, of the book Conduta espírita, by the Spirit  Andre Luiz, psychographics by Waldo Vieira, published by Feb.
February 18.2011.