Laurence Anthony was a conservationist known as the “elephant whisperer". In 1999 Anthony res used and rehabbed a group of wild South African elephants who were deemed dangerous. The animals appear to remember what the conservationist did for them. When Anthony passed away on March 2, 2012, this group of wild animals traveled 12 hours to his home to stand for a two-day vigil.
Elephants long known for their grieving rituals, live between 50-70 years. While the oldest living female is the matriarch of the family. Elephants remember and learn from their commander. The leader of the pack is truly old and wise, but I have a few questions. How did they “know" he died? Who alerted them? How did they remember the long journey to Anthony's home? Was it the same place they were rehabilitated or someplace else? Why two days? Maybe they needed food and that was all the time the herd could spare. There are some of the many questions I am curious to know. I will add these to my list at the pearly gates of heaven.
These spectacular animals, created by God, remembered the bravery and kindness of Anthony 13 years earlier. Following their example, we need to remember the kindness of friends, relatives, neighbors, and loved ones. The greatest gift of all is the mighty deeds of the Lord. With His strong arm, He saves us. With His strong arm, He provides faith, which gives us strength and courage in tough times.
Ps 77:10-12 “Then I thought, ‘To this, I will appeal the years of the right hand of the Most High. I will remember your miracles of long ago. I will meditate on all your works and consider all your mighty deeds. Note, faith's decision to look beyond the present troubles and God's bewildering inactivity to draw hope anew from God's saving acts of old.
Take a moment to ponder. Who has shone you kindness long ago? Look beyond today’s present circumstances to embrace the amazing things the Lord has planned for you. If the Lord can give
elephants the wisdom and instincts to honor a loved one, how do we honor loved ones that have gone before us?
Zimmerman, J (2012) Saying Goodby, Elephants Hold Apparent Vigil to Mourn their Human Friend. www.grist.org, posted, May 14, 2012. (2017)
Elephants Share Emotions, Empathy, and Grief Rituals, www.clocktimelesspets.com, posted September 2, 2017.