Awww, Look at the Baby Lion

In David Sadaris' latest book he has a piece about how American are suckers for baby animals. I can't argue the point.

Look at this adorable lion cub. She's 3 months old and was orphaned when her mother was attacked. She is all alone in the world and is living in an animal orphanage.

This little lioness is named Lucy and she is a powerful little girl. She has a fierce growl, but it subsides when you rub under her chin. She's as soft as a fleece blanket. When you look into Lucy's eyes you don't see a vicious lion. You see a scared little baby. It costs a lot to take care of Lucy, because even as a cub she has a great appetite.

It probably wouldn't take much more writing before people would start sending in checks to support Lucy. And why not? She's sweet, adorable, and all alone in the world. Who could resist that beautiful face?

I wonder, though, If I posted a picture of a 33-year-old man or 21-year-old woman suffering from AIDS if it would result in the same response. Lucy is being well cared fore. But that man or woman, particularly in a developing nation, is probably left to fend for him/herself.

Certainly, there are many people who are passionate about caring for those whose lives are threatened by HIV and AIDS. But because it isn't an instant "feel good" cause, we find it easier to support baby lions than we do adults whose only hope lies in the hands of strangers.

I hope Lucy lives a long and happy life. And I'm sure that generous strangers will see to it that she does. Now if we could only make AIDS patients in developing countries look cute and cuddly.