If you are wondering why the dating life of a pet rabbit should matter in a troubled world, you haven’t met Petunia.
Senior editor Lydialyle Gibson’s lop-eared bunny has been a hot topic in our office for months, ever since we learned that, after losing her rabbit companion, she went speed dating. (It’s a common pet-rabbit ritual, it turns out, facilitated by some dedicated humans.) But Petunia’s story (page 23) isn’t just a quirky look at the animal world. It’s a window into themes that all of us face throughout our lives: grief and life after loss; the challenge of meeting someone new; the primal, physiological need for companionship.
Lydia delves into scientific research to explore how relationships actually make us healthier—including the findings of the longitudinal Harvard Study of Adult Development, commonly known as the Harvard Happiness Study. Through the lens of biology, psychology, and (let’s face it) gossip, she shows us how her highly opinionated rabbit has worked through the process of losing and finding a partner. I encourage you to share your own stories of love in the animal kingdom (see page 64 for details) and to follow Petunia through disastrous first dates, tentative meetups in a bathtub, and new romantic rituals involving salad greens. When you read about her search for a new “husbun” after the death of her beloved Oliver, I guarantee you’ll think about the humans in your life.
IT FELT especially meaningful to focus on Petunia at the time of Commencement and reunions, when so many gathered to celebrate not just the knowledge they’ve acquired, but also the relationships they’ve built. It’s always a joy to learn how classmates have taken the tools of a Harvard education—knowledge, experiences, connections—and used them to make a positive impact. Some Harvard graduates are acting on the world stage; many are making a difference in their states, their cities, their neighborhoods, and their communities.
Harvard Magazine wants to celebrate all of those efforts, so we’re seeking nominees for our inaugural Harvard Magazine 36 list. This isn’t a lifetime achievement award, but rather, a look at the work of Harvard graduates in medias res—pardon the Latin—as they create meaning everywhere, on every scale. We’re looking for artists and athletes, doctors and educators, people engaged in business, politics, philanthropy, and more. Please look out for our online nomination form and stay tuned for more in the coming year.
In the meantime, best wishes for summer reading, meaningful snuggles, and ample salad greens.
