So many of us remember our very first best friend as being soft, warm, cuddly, loyal, and stuffed. Mine was named Toby. And he was a koala. Not truly a bear. But nonetheless, he served me with complete passion and sacrifice. He went where I went, whenever I wanted him to. He shared my deepest secrets, my hopes and fears.
I have no idea what became of him. Chances are he no longer exists. I couldn't tell you the moment I betrayed him, lost interest, tossed him aside or buried him in a closet...or allowed him to be thrown carelessly into a heap of decaying, rotting trash. I have no recollection. But to this day, I feel guilt and regret.
To me, how people treat their Teddys - their true, unwavering companions - is a rather insightful glimpse into how they treat themselves. After all, these vulnerable, dependent creatures develop with us, by our sides as we grow from being helpless and meek into increasingly self-sufficient beings with the capacity for great acts of kindness...and cruelty.
And so I've been utterly fascinated with lost and discarded street bears - or out-of-place stuffed animals in general for that matter - for as long as I can remember. Anytime I happen upon one, you can be sure I'm pulling out a camera.
Here are a few who've particularly moved me.
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