An Evening with Lee Asher
“It is not in the stars to hold our destiny, but in ourselves.”
When my friend Dr. Gary Polizzotto relayed this line to me 50 years ago, I spent my entire lifetime wondering if I would ever meet someone who truly fit this description. Finally, on October 10, I met such a person at Morristown’s Mayo Performing Art Center (MPAC). Indeed, I felt honored to attend a meet-and-greet and privileged to listen to a heartwarming and often tearful discussion given by a unique soul, Lee Asher.
The Asher House
Lee Asher, the founder of The Asher House, a non-profit animal sanctuary in Salem, Oregon, which rescues dogs, cats, and other animals, exuded a comforting and inviting presence as he met a roomful of animal enthusiasts. Moreover, he happily posed for photographs and graciously signed autographs.
Asher filled the sold-out auditorium, and his powerful ability to share his personal stories moved the audience to laugh, cry, and admire a passionate champion for animals. Throughout his journey, he has maintained a tireless commitment to raising awareness for animals that need love and care, just like humans.
A Childhood of Pain
Asher spoke about his childhood, saying his early life comprised survival, which left him without a positive view of growing up. He had ADHD and was subject to severe physical bullying in school. To make matters worse, his parents fought every day, several times a day, and his home life was toxic. Despite all this personal pain, Asher shared with incredible insight, “Your greatest contribution often comes from your greatest hurt.”
The Catalyst
Feeling deeply alone, Asher left the school grounds one day and walked into an animal shelter for the first time. He said, “I love dogs. This might be a great fit.” He recounted how he tricked a beautiful woman named Barbara at the front desk into allowing him entry to the back, where the dogs were located. He asked her why the dogs were in jail, and she replied, “They are not in jail. They are here because no one wants them.” This catalyst turned Asher’s life around, as he became intent on making a difference in the world.
He was lucky enough to attend college and gain a mentor who said, “Your uniqueness makes you special, and you are going to do something great.” However, when Asher wanted to buy a van and travel around the country, creating awareness for shelter dogs and other animals, his mentor shut him down, saying it was a bad idea.
Overcoming Obstacles
Nevertheless, Asher persevered and overcame many obstacles. Today, he has millions of social media followers, and The Asher House is one of the largest animal sanctuaries in the country. Most importantly, he exists to touch hearts and change human and animal lives.
Asher’s Final Message
His final message imparted some stirring words: “We want to help these animals that need help because we relate to them. We see a piece of us in them—we want the love they need.”
An Evening with Lee Asher
Donate, Adopt, Foster
If you get the chance and want to help, see Asher on his tour or donate to his organization. Alternatively, you can also give your money and time to your local shelter. Whether you adopt, foster, neuter, or spay, you can help take Asher’s profound message of love and hope to heart and save those without a voice.
Here’s a quick reel where Lee Asher meets Hank. Enjoy!
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