31/03/2019
"Every now and then, a cub emerges as a battle-scarred warrior, and then gets shot for the very qualities that have allowed him to be a survivor." Dereck Joubert, National Geographic filmmaker
It is a very rare occurrence for young cubs to survive adulthood. Only the physically strong, intelligent, and fit lions survive to become adults and kings in charge of a 'pride'. Sadly, no matter how hard lion kings, like me, try to survive, we are constantly sought after by trophy hunters, men and women who seek nothing but glory for themselves by taking down adult lions for sport.
In this world, success is measured by the amount of strength you possess, the skills you gain, or the trophies in your cabinet. But I say to you, those who live with this kind of measure will not stand out in the crowd. Look around you. There are plenty of people thinking, wishing, dreaming, and striving for this same and common kind of success. The idea of success where the more accomplishments or acquisitions a person gains the more important and valuable a person becomes. This definition of success only makes a person “look” or seem good, but not necessarily be good. You want to be different? Make a difference. That, dear AAISian, is the kind of success I’ve sought to impart to you in the many years I have served you.
As you go out and explore this world, you will discover how cold, cruel, and dark it can be. Take heart for there is hope in each and every one of you. You, young lion, can be a beacon of light. Light knows no color, race, gender, or age. It doesn't discriminate nor show any partiality because that light is Love. Instead of looking at the darkness around you, find the light of love within you and allow that to shine forth so that others may see. Muster the courage and strength to show love and allow yourself to be loved, in return.
Yes, my life as a lion may not have been easy. Many trophy hunters were out to get me, but I endured because the light of love has pushed me to endure the life I was given. The love shown by the One who made me, the family who raised me, the people who supported me, and you, the young lion who stuck with me through thick and thin have been my constant source of inspiration and encouragement. For that, I thank all of you.
Life in this world is a fragile, unpredictable and fleeting experience, but it is still a GIFT. Value the life you have and the lives of those around you. Use this gift of life you've been given to strive, to serve, and to succeed in being a beacon of light. And in sharing your gift of existence, you will learn all the important values I have sought to impart to you - perseverance, endurance, resilience, diligence, cooperation, courage, integrity, honesty, humility, kindness, and love.
I will always be grateful for being able to survive for this long to serve you for as long as I could. For the past 24 years, serving others with love has been my mission and battle cry. As I lay to rest, I will find solace in knowing that this battle cry will continue to live on in and through you, dear AAISian.
Continue the battle cry of JUNTOS (Togetherness). Juntos, not in being a "champion of the world", but in championing peace, harmony, kindness, courage, and humility. Juntos in striving for the good and service of others through love.
Cherish your today that you may take delight in your tomorrow.
Farewell, dear lion, farewell.
With sincerest gratitude and love,
Andy the Lion
