Broken Foot X 2
He gives to the beasts their food, and to the young ravens that cry. Psalm 147:9
Watching an injured animal move about is heart breaking. We named her Broken Foot because of the fracture in her left hind leg. She would limp out to eat but the others made no room for her and often head butted her out of the way. Last fall, her ribs stuck out and we thought she would never make it through the winter.
When we get a scratch, we get it taken care of quickly. If it is serious enough, we find the nearest urgent care or emergency room. But what about the deer and other critters that wander too close to the road. How do they deal with pain after an accident?
Broken Foot came throughout the winter and Michael always made sure she had food to eat—after the others left. While still limping, she had a strong will to live. Late in the spring, she gave birth to two fawns who now follow her everywhere. We rejoiced at her survival.
Then came the second accident. Now her right front leg just dangles. She has not given up but to watch her gives me a big lump in my throat. What is the driving force that keeps her going? Her fawns?
We tend to give up too easily. When things become the least bit uncomfortable or painful, we seek a prescription, a drink or some way to lessen our pain. But animals—they just keep going and doing what comes naturally for them. What is natural for humans is far different from other creatures found in God’s creation. We whine, moan, and groan and seek attention, don’t we?
Thankfully, we can talk to our heavenly Father and ask for healing. The rest of nature …well, you get the idea. So, what is to become of Broken Foot? Michael is going to call an animal rehab/rescue and see what they say. Next step is the game warden. After that, nature will have to take its course—as difficult for me as that might seem to be.
I know that I want to be more like Broken Foot with a strong will to survive and to keep going.
Father God, thank You for opening our eyes and minds to another life lesson taught by nature. Help us to run to You with problems and to never give up. Please take mercy on Broken Foot. AMEN.