Luna's gift: Be Affectionate...

When Luna first came to live here at Fairwinds she had a brand new baby. The first day or two that she was here she seemed understandably confused. Yet, when I went into the pasture she would seek me out, lean her head against my leg, pressing gently, and becoming very still.  It was most clearly a sign of affection. 

At first glance, goats and sheep may look a bit alike.  For the previous two seasons I had housed sheep in my pasture, and I had rather expected my new goat to act like the sheep I had become familiar with. But no lamb had ever come up to me to ask for attention. It was touching to have this animal attempt to forge a relationship with me.  As days went by, I found myself spending more and more time in the pasture.  If I sat on an overturned bucket, Luna would come up, and slide her cheek against mine. Resting her chin on my shoulder, she would become very still, exhale deeply, and squinch her eyes up tight. I soon learned where she liked me to rub and pet and scritch her the most. While her kid danced and frolicked around us, Luna and I would commune in silence, getting to know each other and enjoying each others company. 

I found that no matter how demanding my life was, how many bullet points dotted my "to do" list, how pressing the chores were, time spent quietly sharing love with Luna was a shining, joyful part of my day. She would stop what she was doing when she saw me, and come to show me how glad she was that I was there with her. A simple thing, but one that I found to be deeply touching. This cloven-hoofed farm animal reminded me to show the people I care about that I am glad to see them when we reunite.  To give a happy greeting and a welcoming hug or kiss when family comes home.  To reach out and touch or hold a hand. To share a smile. Because one should never be so busy that they put off showing affection.