I rarely look up old pictures; I believe just about every photo I post on the blog should be new or fresh. But I came across this one yesterday; Maria took this photo of me saying goodbye to Simon.
It shows me trying to comfort him while dying from a devastating stroke.
Simon died on a cold day in January.
It’s a wonder he lasted as long as he did. The State Police raided the farm he was on, and Simon was nearly dead from starvation, disease, and neglect.
We did nurse him back to health and had some wonderful years with him. He and I bonded during that awful time.
We got close when he let me put salve and antibiotics on his most painful and sensitive wounds. I fed him hay straw by straw when his mouth was too infected to bite and chew.
We became close; I read him donkey stories and walked in the woods together – magical times.
Lulu and Fanny got used to Simon; each kicked him in the head every morning, each taking a different side. It didn’t seem to bother him a bit.
Simon and I loved one another in the rare way animals and people fell in love.
I remember looking out the bedroom window – I didn’t hear his usual joyous morning bray – I called it his call to life – and I saw him working in circles, staggering, shaking his head.
I knew he was having a stroke; the vet got to the farm quickly and said we had to put him down.
I ran out to the pasture as quickly as I could.
I knew he was in awful trouble.
Simon had a rough life but some happy years with us. Hundreds, if not thousands, came to the farm over time to meet him during our open houses.
I believe in the radical acceptance of life. This was life, not drama or crisis. Our society promotes the idea that we will live forever and never get sick.
Simon was blessed to be alive, and we were blessed to know him. A thread always handed to him.
The photo still dings my heart, but it also makes me smile. Simon was a fantastic, unique, forgiving animal; I will never regret knowing and loving him. Maria feels the same way.
He had every right to despise human beings; he had seen the worst of them. He was as loving as a Lab puppy and just as stubborn.
The photo was taken immediately after the vet injected two lethal medicines to put him out of his pain and confusion. Simon was dead a minute or so later.
Being with them in the end is a mysterious blessing and those able to experience such are forever changed.
I remember this, Jon. I seem to remember all the losses you have had. All those animals you have made such a difference to.
I love his story! Animals can teach us a lot about radical acceptance as Simon did for so many! Thank you for sharing!
I recall that day and that photo well……… it is as poignant and moving now as it was then. Bless Simon…..the donkey who forgave his past in order to embrace his time with you.
Susan M
What a touching photo, and story, Jon. I never knew that donkeys could have strokes, but I’m glad you were nearby to give Simon the care and love he needed.
I love this photo…it tells so much about the special and strong bond you and Simon created. That split second as life is beginning to flow away, and any suffering he might have felt was easing. The beautiful gift of his saved life…the one you got to be a part of…opening up to the Universe into a life of spirit. Thank you for sharing this beautiful photograph.
Just finished your book about Simon. What a lovely story.
I’m so glad Simon spent his final years with you! What a gift for both of you. And a very touching photo too.
Thank you for sharing this story. Breaks my heart when animals die, they add so much to our life. Bless you for giving him the best years before he passed.
Photo and your poignant words stopped me in my tracks. So good to revisit Simon. Thank you Jon
So sorry for your loss. Memories of animals, and people, that have touched our lives and gone before us are always precious. Pictures help too. I remember reading all about Simon when I first started following you.
Thanks Susan it’s not tragedy it’s life
Simon has a special place in my heart, too. I first read about him in USA TODAY. Purchased your book about him and couldn’t put it down. That started my on your blog and all of your books, which are gathered on my bookshelf. May God bless you for your patience and goodness to ALL animals.
The best gift we can give a beloved animal (or person) is a peaceful death. <3
I have been crying ever since I read this….
Simon was a treasure. I remember this well. You were both lucky to have each other!
It was because of you writing about Simon that I came to deeply appreciate, respect, and come to love these sweet creatures. Thank you so much.
I was once again moved to tears over this wonderful animal and the story of his almost literal resurrection under your care and love. Having raised wirehair Dachshunds for years, I always feel it is an obligation and honor to be with them as their lives end.
I was fortuanate to meet Simon at your open house. I loved his braying and was such a joy. I am so glad he had some great years with you and Maria