This is so challenging to me, in the best sort of way. I've grown up in a world and culture that has itself been mollycoddled, and taught me and so many to believe that in control and modernity we've found the best way of doing things. Yet in truth, what we've done is divorce ourselves from the land, and history, and all the wisdom that came before us. It's amazing to me to read of animals who have in their very bones what it takes not only to survive, but to thrive, and meanwhile watch a society of humans struggle to even answer the question, "What might it look like to live well?"
Carly, thank you for the reminder that there is more in our instincts than we give credit to.
It's good to be challenged :) I'm really glad that that's what you took from it, Joel. And I really recommend the book I linked to in the post, Nourishment by Fred Provenza, for a deep dive into the wisdom of animal instinct and how we might tune into our own innate wisdom to thrive.
I'm sure you've learned a lot from them. The other thing that amazes me is when you say how their grazing clears the land and identifies your boundaries. I could do with them here, I can't cut through the tangle of bramble and field grass! 😂 I love goats. When I was a kid We lived in a village in Cyprus, everyone had herds of goats, we'd be woken every morning by their bells as they were all taken out into the hills to pasture. The babies were kept in the village, we used to go and play with them. They were so curious and friendly. Sometimes I'd help herd them, that was hard work, could never keep them together! 😂 Reading about your goats stirs up lots of childhood memories!
Herding goats is like herding cats, bribery is much more efficient! Oh yes they are brilliant for clearing brambles! our goats are in high demand by all our neighbours wanting to borrow them to clear their ditches! I'm so glad this brings up nice memories for you, and your childhood in Cyprus sounds so idyllic! :)
This is so challenging to me, in the best sort of way. I've grown up in a world and culture that has itself been mollycoddled, and taught me and so many to believe that in control and modernity we've found the best way of doing things. Yet in truth, what we've done is divorce ourselves from the land, and history, and all the wisdom that came before us. It's amazing to me to read of animals who have in their very bones what it takes not only to survive, but to thrive, and meanwhile watch a society of humans struggle to even answer the question, "What might it look like to live well?"
Carly, thank you for the reminder that there is more in our instincts than we give credit to.
It's good to be challenged :) I'm really glad that that's what you took from it, Joel. And I really recommend the book I linked to in the post, Nourishment by Fred Provenza, for a deep dive into the wisdom of animal instinct and how we might tune into our own innate wisdom to thrive.
I have added it to my reading list!
I never knew they eat lichens off rocks, or the soil to get their minerals... such amazing creatures, thank you for sharing. 💕
It is fascinating to watch them browse!
I'm sure you've learned a lot from them. The other thing that amazes me is when you say how their grazing clears the land and identifies your boundaries. I could do with them here, I can't cut through the tangle of bramble and field grass! 😂 I love goats. When I was a kid We lived in a village in Cyprus, everyone had herds of goats, we'd be woken every morning by their bells as they were all taken out into the hills to pasture. The babies were kept in the village, we used to go and play with them. They were so curious and friendly. Sometimes I'd help herd them, that was hard work, could never keep them together! 😂 Reading about your goats stirs up lots of childhood memories!
Herding goats is like herding cats, bribery is much more efficient! Oh yes they are brilliant for clearing brambles! our goats are in high demand by all our neighbours wanting to borrow them to clear their ditches! I'm so glad this brings up nice memories for you, and your childhood in Cyprus sounds so idyllic! :)
I can see your herd with Fannie leading it as I read your words, Carly 💖
Wonderful accompanying photos—Fawnie in her element.
So very interesting! I’m not a farmer or animal herder, but I love learning this! Maybe I’ll use it in a future life! 🏡
I’m so glad you enjoyed it Trish!