Diary of a Zoolatrist

Diary of a Zoolatrist

Looking back, I see why I am a born animal worshipper: I had a childhood fondness for lizards and butterflies, in particular, but also other animals. I also liked reading Dr Dolittle books. I found nature charming. I imagine many other children feel the same way. It is probably inherited from our ancestors living in a state of nature. But I had an experience that put me on the right track just recently, thanks to my pet parakeet Eloise. I have spoken of this remarkable bird before, but it is hard to convey her abilities in words; you have to see her in action. She has an almost uncanny intelligence and playfulness, not shared by any other bird I have known. Friends are amazed to see her let me hold her in my hand, stroke her, climb on my fingers, chase her round the cage. It is as if she knows my mind and intentions quite well (my other two birds will not let me near them). She trusts me. She gives a strong impression of an internal quasi-divine spark. More generally, it is nice to have a religion one can intellectually accept, because religious emotions are real. I can now have a religious life without having to accept absurd dogmas.