Why the Hate?
Dear Friends and Followers,
I feel compelled to address some comments that have come to my attention regarding Olivia’s involvement in our horse rescue campaigns and her role with AWL and our horses. It makes me very sad that I even had to take the time to write this, but I want to go on record with our petition.
Anyone who knows me, and AWL, will know that I have always included my children, where appropriate, in our rescue missions. I believe very strongly in teaching compassion and helping my children to learn how wonderful and enriching relationships with animals can be for our lives.
And I hope that one day they will help me to spread the word about animal rescue as they go out into the world.
Recently, my daughter Olivia has been playing an active role in our horse rescues. And she has been visible in our campaigns and fundraising efforts.
She has her own private horse, Sunshine and is on her way to becoming an accomplished rider. But I wanted her to understand the plight of horses who are not as fortunate as Sunshine. And to understand the complicated and very challenging process of rescuing those horses. And also, the care involved once they are rescued.
Somehow, somewhere along the line, some people have started to speculate that we are rescuing horse FOR Olivia. And the story is being changed into Olivia somehow having a very privileged position in this process. I don’t know the motivation.
Jealousy? Bitterness? Ignorance?
Whatever the case, it has resulted in Olivia being insulted, bullied, made to feel bad for doing something good that comes from her heart and her love of animals.
So going forward I am going to keep Olivia’s contributions to our horse rescue missions more private.
She will, of course, help me to care for these wonderful animals who need a team to keep them well. But I will not shine a spotlight on her until I feel it will be safe and productive to do so.
The animal rescue community is full of wonderful people. And so many times we must waste energy defending our good works against those who spew hate.
I continue to hope against all hope that I will not have to do this again.
Love,
Mia
Mia Mattsson Mercer 