Jora & Marri ~ Donkey Family
by artist © Karrel Christopher Original oil on board painting 70 x 55 cm, frame available
Sometimes the joy of love just cannot be contained – and why should
it?! All beings glow in the sweetness of compassion and relationship.
For several years, Jora had a close relationship with another older
donkey that the Kid’s Farm manager referred to as her “grandmother”
(name Pipa). Their history was unclear but was believed to include
giving exhausting rides on back and in carts - and being transported for
holiday nativity scenes. Their retirement to the Kid’s Farm was far
from perfect but certainly less demanding.
The years I volunteered
there, I did my best to advocate for respect and improved care for them
and for all the farm residents. We had become very good friends. Until
then, I had never realized how smart, loving and affectionate donkeys
are. Donkey hugs are very special!!
After a time “grandmother”
Pipa became very unwell and was separated from Jora. I will never
forget her heartbreaking desperate cries from Jora as Pipa was dragged
away. Sadly, grandmother Pipa did not recover from her illness. I fear
with the prevailing apathy and comments about her “just being old” that
they just “put her down” rather than giving her a chance with
reasonable veterinary care.
For Jora, the months that followed
were sad, lonely and full of anxiety. I visited with her as often as
possible – bringing her healthy treats, helping with clean up and
grooming and just sitting with her. Our long gentle talks and warm hugs
meant the world to me...and hopefully helped her feel supported in her
loneliness. The search was on to find her a new companion...but it
seemed to go painfully slow for a donkey suffering alone. The other
goats and sheep would sniff and greet her through the fence but it just
was not the same as having her own species to connect with – in person.
Finally, the happy day arrived and I was thrilled to assist in
ushering in the new young donkey friend “Marri”. I spent hours with
them overseeing the introductions and reassuring them both. It all went
so smoothly – dare I say perfectly – it seemed to be love at first
sight for them both. Jora’s months of loneliness were finally over and
sweet lovely Marri was no longer having to compete in a large herd of
donkeys where she was born. She seemed very very at ease in her new
home.
As the hours, days, weeks and months went by – I could see and
feel the depth of their love and connection grow. Their attitude,
behavior and health simply blossomed with caring, love and joy. I was
so very blessed to share in so many wonderful days with them – our
closeness growing with every visit.
Though I no longer am able to
visit with my donkey friends, I carry their gentleness and kindness in
my heart. They taught me so much about love and have changed my life
for the better. In this painting endeavored to portray the colorful
energy of their relationship...and a love that can help heal a weary
world.
All beings cherish safety, family, freedom and LIFE
~~~ Live, rejoice and prosper VEGAN ~~~
Create a world respectful, just, safe and joyous for everyone.
ART website:
https://www.karrelchristopher.com/ Art on Face Book:
https://www.facebook.com/Karrel-Christopher-ART-Photograph…/
Due to the discovery of several thefts of my art images being used for
unauthorized, unlicensed merchandise sales and frequent downloads and
shares without credits and links – I will no longer be sharing quality
resolutions images. If you should have sincere interest in a painting
you are considering for purchase – contact me for more information and
better resolution photos via private e-mail. Many thanks for your
understanding, consideration and support.
Please feel welcome to share with me your e-mail if you desire to be on my ART mailing list to receive creative updates. ~ KC
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