Over time, we are touched by the sweetness of donkeys, by their gentleness, patience and intuition. Lulu is a guard animal, she is ever vigilant against intruders – deer, foxes, coyotes, stray dogs, new people. She is shy sometimes, wary of people trying to make her do things she doesn’t want to do.

She has completely opened herself up to Maria, who she trusts. Donkeys are wary of human beings, because human beings have so often used them badly. Donkeys will not do what they think is unsafe or too difficult. But Maria and Lulu have forged a trust far beyond food and attention. This morning, as we walked out in the far pasture, Lulu sidled up to Maria for her morning hug and talk.