I am VERY proud of you! I hope you get some good advice here - about the detached part. I used to work as a nurse and then volunteer - that is the only comparison I can make - I worked with elderly and just learned to love them but not take them quite so personally into my heart as I did in the beginning - too painful at each loss. I think you and I are both softies - and this is not going to be easy to learn, unfortunately - but just keep telling yourself that the part you play IS useful and you do NOT have to take them home with you to help them. What you give them while you are working is ENORMOUS.

As for helping with a shelter - I like to sew and am starting to make some little blankets to donate. I got that idea from someone here. That way I can feel useful but not get personally involved like you are. Good for you!!!

PS Someone else will come for Cantaloupe!!! You will see