At 66 years old, I have finally discovered something vital about kindness that’s beneficial to my peace of mind, something that I think other kind women may have also discovered lately.

Here it is…. Just because you’re kind, it doesn’t mean you’re weak and should be taken advantage of.

Just because you’re kind, it doesn’t mean people can treat you disrespectfully.

Who’s with me on this?

Why is this subject pertinent for the “Animal Heroes” column in the Happy Herald?

We also have to remember to be heroes to ourselves, to stick up for ourselves – in case someone is thinking that because you’re kind, and do not want to see animals, both two-legged and four, harmed, you’re easy to bully or embarrass.

So, the happy news here is once you discover a propensity to “keep the peace” and to not defend yourself against people who are sapping your energy and not treating you well, then that means you can start to solve it.

To be an effective animal hero, we do need to take care of ourselves, to ensure we are here for the long term to help all species of animals live free from harm.

Susan Hargreaves with the rescued dog Lovey who lived to 23 years old as a vegan, and Fluffy the chicken, who lives happily in a sanctuary. Photo credit: SKRoth