Love, Loyalty, Liberty

Whenever our horses or cows managed to escape the confines of their fence, they usually vacated the premises and headed, tails in the air, for the nearest horizon, which elicited panic until they were found, embarrassment because they were eating someone else’s pasture, and much inconvenience and time lost in the process of repatriation. Equines and bovines certainly have many redeeming qualities, but loyalty is not on the list!

But when Blueberry and Meels, my goats, are given their freedom—or snatch it for themselves—they don’t run away. They may knock over a trash can, climb onto a toolbox, jump aboard a car hood, or prune the geraniums by the front step, but they don’t play Jailbreak like their barnyard counterparts do.

I can’t help but wonder if my does’ allegiance would falter if they didn’t trust me to care for, protect, and even indulge them. What if I ever—God forbid—harmed, frightened, or neglected them? Would they pack their proverbial bags and trot off into the sunset?

Following me on a walk 

“He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted,
To proclaim liberty to the captives,
And the opening of the prison to those who are bound.” –ISAIAH 61:1 (NKJV)