El, the young donkey greets the day with joy as he always does! He nuzzles his mother’s side, his long ears flicking at the distant sound of hoofbeats. El has lived here on the farm since he was born just over a year ago.
The Farmer waves and greets Devon. After a few minutes, nodding toward El, the farmer asks, "Devon, would you like that little donkey there? He needs a good home."Devon looks at El, uncertain but fond. "I’ve never kept a donkey, but I do like him." He considers for a moment and then says, "Alright, I’ll take him."
After Devon finishes his trimming chores for the day, he returns home to bring his little trailer to take El home. El hesitates, his hooves leaving small prints in the soft earth as he looks back at his mother and the familiar sights. "Hee-haw...?" His voice is small and uncertain. Devon kneels beside him, trying to sound reassuring. "It’s okay, little guy. I'll take good care of you. We will figure this out together."
El steps cautiously from the trailer, his eyes wide as he sniffs the unfamiliar ground. He moves slowly, missing the comfort of his mother and the sounds of his old friends. Devon watches, unsure of what to do, but gently scatters fresh hay and sets out a bucket of water. "This is your new home, El. Take your time—there’s no rush," he says quietly.
Devon feels a pang of worry, realizing El is not just being stubborn or difficult—he is sad, missing his home and family. "You must miss your mum and your friends," he says gently. Devon sits quietly, offering a gentle hand and his quiet company, letting El know he’s not alone. "It’s okay to feel sad, El. I’ll be here with you until you feel at home,"
Trust grows slowly as days pass—Devon learns to speak softly, move gently, and offer treats with an open palm. El begins to watch him more closely, his ears perking at the sound of Devon's voice and his steps growing more confident. "You’re not alone, El. I’ll help you feel safe here," says Devon, smiling as El finally takes a treat from his hand. El brays softly—a sound of hope and new beginnings, echoing in the gentle morning air.
