All through his illness, Red has communicated to me that he wants to work and needs to work. Even on the worst days of his illness, I took him out to the pasture to sit and be near the sheep. I always felt – and he always made me feel – that this was healing and important to him.

I have curtailed Red’s work for a few weeks, he needs to rest and regain his strength. But I have always found a few minutes in the day for him to work and find his strength and purpose and dignity.

Yesterday, I took him to the Mansion, Jean was on the porch coming inside when she saw Red and she smiled. Jean vacuums the carpets every afternoon, even though the staff has already done that work. This work is something she needs to do, as Red needs to do his.

She came over to Red and bend down so she could be close to him and he raised his head up to her and the two of them shared a powerful moment, an affirmation of work and love and dignity.

It is ironic, but I have just written and published a book about this, it is called “Talking To Animals” is is available everywhere books are sold, and also at Battenkill Books, my local independent bookstore. If you purchase the book from Battenkill I will sign and personalize it and you will receive a tote-bag and a Bedlam Farm post card with the donkeys on it.

The book, it turns out, was quite relevant to Red’s illness and the ways in which I was able to communicate with him about a number of things, including his need to work. You can call the bookstore at 518 677-2515 or order it online. Just leave your requested inscription. They take Paypal and major credit cards are are awfully nice.