Like anyone who’s human, I have bouts of self doubt. Recently, while stuck in bed recovering from an illness, I was struggling to feel my self worth and my unfaltering belief in the mission I have undertaken with my company, Valentino The Love Bunny. Questions like “Am I getting through?,” “Do people really care?,” “How will I fulfill my purpose?,” “Is it worth it?” Questions I believe people ask themselves every day. Feeling sick always clouds the day and I just couldn’t break through. 

The next day, even though I was still feeling weak and vulnerable, I decided to check on my phone messages. Low and behold, there was one from a customer. She explained that she had inadvertently placed multiple orders and could I please call  back to straighten out the situation. One of the things I most enjoy about this business is the ability to have direct contact with the people who are supporting me and my dream to make the world a better place. People who love bunnies, people who love animals, people who love…love. 

And so, I called. The kind voice that greeted me sounded surprised to hear from me so quickly, but that’s how we roll here at the company! There is no better time than NOW to solve a problem and make someone happy. Without prompting, she expressed such love for her Playful Valentino The Love Bunny. She explained that she was anxious to get a Playful Valentino toy and Book 1 into the hands of her beloved grandson so he could experience the same warm feelings and joy she got from one of our most popular stuffies. 

She continued by saying, “I have to tell you how important what you are doing is! You are making a difference in people’s lives with your books and toys, and especially, Valentino’s message. I can tell that you’re a good person and that you love animals and people.”  I was beyond touched when she went on to share something deeply personal that was heavy on her heart. She explained that she had recently lost her husband, the love of her life. She was so lonely for him and wondered what life could possibly look like without him. She missed the warmth and comfort of him sleeping by her side and, quite incredibly, she told me Valentino The Love Bunny was helping to fill his spot. Her final message was that God has a plan for all of us, even if we don’t know it and “to have faith.”

Honestly, I was moved to tears and told her that I fully understood. My own Cuddly plush Valentino The Love Bunny had been in my arms comforting me every night for two years after my beloved mother, my soulmate, passed away. There are countless people around the world who sleep with their bunnies or other soft plushies. Babies, children, adults and seniors, and yes, corporate executives  - all sleeping with their comfort item. It is as natural and soothing to the human spirit as could be! 

The day before this amazing conversation,I was feeling low and discouraged and now, I felt I had just received a direct message from God, Himself!! Let us not forget, there are angels in every corner of this world. They are all around us, comforting us and this is living proof. So, if you are feeling down, if you are feeling hopeless or lost, look and listen for your angel. I heard mine, this lovely lady.   You need to be open to the love that is waiting for you, maybe in the next person you meet. We never know where the answers might come from, but they do come!

 Love,

Margarita (aka “The Animal Lady”)