[Beechie]

Originally Posted by jet10s

I guess people really cannot grasp the idea or interpretation that what we spend on pets is merely a symptom of the larger problem brought on by the “relativism, narcissism, [and] consumerism” of our culture. When we personify our pets, when we devote and expend our best energy and attention on their care and attention, at the expense of other people, then we have gone too far. It becomes narcissism — a form of self-love — only “a caricature of love” — that involves satisfying our own desire to love and think ourselves loved. I have been a healthcare provider and nurse practitioner for over 40 years and my motto is obviously one which few of you seem to share -- First, people. Then, pets. From an interview given by Pope Francis (before he became Pope)(linked here), an excerpt of which (at around the 3:00 mark) is transcribed here, he says:

One interesting fact about this paganism….. the amount spent on non-necessities worldwide. Let’s put aside spending on necessary things such as food and medicine. Of those things that are not necessities, or superfluous things, the greatest amount is spent on pets. The most unnecessary spending is made on pets. Pets are idolized. And there’s the idolatry to buy, to rent, to have a feeling to give as I want, where I want, without needing a response, isn’t that true? It’s all a caricature of love. And the second largest amount of money is spent on cosmetology. Cosmetics. I don’t remember exactly the amounts worldwide, but there are millions and millions spent on these two things. Meanwhile the Pope is talking about children who are dying of hunger in underdeveloped continents like Africa, Asia and America. First come pets. And then if there is something left we throw it to the children…..”

"I find your comments offensive on both counts"