[OldPossum]

As much as we might wish, they cannot replace human beings in our lives.

I would imagine that many people would take issue with you on that assumption.

[Mamzelle]

Sure. There are times *I* would take issue. But when all is said and done, dogs are a pleasure and a comfort. But they do not provide what we really need from other *people*—only a substitute and a compensation. I think those here are arguing around me, they’ve been hurt by people and like their animals. I’m certainly no different. I’m not even saying you should still try to get what you need from human beings—this world changes so much, maybe that’s not what we can realistically expect.