Let's Go There

Waking up to the crowing of roosters might not be on anyone's bucket list, though it's a complete departure from city life. Leaving the chaos of my metropolis behind, I escaped to the charming village of Watkins Glen, nestled in the Finger Lakes region of New York. Though tourists are typically seduced by the scenic hiking trails, waterfalls, and wine tours, I was partial to spending my day with livestock in the country. However, this was no ordinary pasture. It was a safe haven for rescued farm animals, aptly named, Farm Sanctuary. For the full farm experience, I stayed overnight in one of their cabins, falling asleep beneath millions of visible stars.

During an early morning in June, I joined a volunteer who introduced me to the residents. Every animal had a story of rescue, rehabilitation, and resilience. We approached one of the rustic red barns, home to a flock of sheep. Unlike the friendly cows that had introduced themselves by licking my bare legs with their leathery tongues, the timid sheep crowded the back of the barn. I crouched in the hay, patiently awaiting my first encounter. Slowly, one by one, they cautiously approached. Before long, I was surrounded by the woolly creatures, accepted as one of their herd. One sheep in particular leaned against my body. I gazed into his soulful eyes, hoping to earn his trust. I silently apologized on behalf of mankind and our callous ways. After all, how could this sheep, having suffered abuse in a past life, depend on us once again?

Breathing in the fresh country air and basking in the sunshine, I found peace. It was a retreat from the hectic routine of my daily life. Though it was a refuge for farmed animals, it was a haven for travelers, too. In a tumultuous world, sometimes we need a gentle reminder that there are people committed to changing it for the better. These animals were no longer destined for the stockyard or the slaughterhouse. My inhales and exhales were more akin to sighs of relief.

When I gazed back into that sheep's eyes, I saw forgiveness. It was in the presence of animals that I found humanity. Sometimes an introduction is all that's needed to influence hearts and change minds.