Willie perched on Megan's arm with Hannah and her mom. Receipt for the US$200 gift for Willie from Master

Hannah, a two-year-old toddler has developed a close friendship with a parrot named Willie, who is her babysitter Megan’s beloved animal companion. This relationship proved itself one day when Hannah was being taken care of by Megan. She momentarily left the room and suddenly heard Willie loudly flapping his wings and squawking repeatedly, “Mama! Baby!” This was something he had never said before. Alerted, Megan came rushing back to find Hannah turning blue. She was apparently choking on something she had eaten. Megan quickly did the Heimlich Maneuver and was able to save Hannah’s life.

On March 14, Golden Year 6 (2009), for his intelligence, loyalty and friendship, our Association members presented Willie the Shining World Hero Award from Supreme Master Ching Hai along with US$200 in gifts, which included many healthy vegan foods and snacks, toys, shampoo and a $100 gift certificate to a pet shop. Megan accepted the presents on behalf of Willie, and she also gladly received Master’s books and DVDs.

Megan wrote Master a lovely letter on Willie’s behalf, which says, “Thank you, Supreme Master! I appreciate all the wonderful gifts you gave me… I was simply doing what any watchful best friend would do. I knew that mommy would understand that my best friend Hannah was in great trouble… Mommy hung your letter right above my favorite perch.”

In describing her loving relationship with her animal companion, Megan wrote, “Willie means so much to me and I would be lost without his unconditional love! He has always been my hero as he got me out of a very depressed time in my life.” She thanked Master for making it known throughout the world just how precious our beloved co-inhabitants are.

A hero’s salute to you, Willie, for your wise life-saving act and loving heart! We wish you many happy celebrations of life as we are reminded of the noble spirit and intelligence of our many animal friends.