Donkeys, like dogs, have been working and living with people for thousands of years. They know us well, read us intuitively, and have always been spiritual and metaphoric symbols for religion and work, in life and literature and art.

My donkeys, Lulu and Fanny, have been with me for 15 years, they are sisters, they have been together for almost all of their lives. Maria has bonded with them in the most beautiful way.

We often come out to commune with these two sweet and faithful creatures. Most people don’t know that donkeys are guard animals, they keep our sheep safe from coyotes and other predators.

During these surreal times, we often go out into the pasture and just sit with them, or listen to them. They read our feelings and moods even better than dogs. They calm and steady us. We are very lucky to have them, especially now. Come and see.

(This video was created for the residents of the Manson Assisted Care Facility and the students from Bishop Maginn High School who are learning at home.