North to Alaska…

If the words “North to Alaska”* have given you an annoying case of earworm, otherwise known as stuck music syndrome, you are dating yourself and you will know that some things are best left in the past.

Another thing that we all should ensure is left in the past is forgetting animals in our care.

In fact, such a poignant message is this, that the following quote marks the entrance to Edgar’s Mission.

This quote too, we believe, should set the tone for humanity’s relationship with the animal kingdom.

Kicked off as it was when those curious wolves first began loitering around the campfire of humankind some 10,000 years ago. Something that was to ignite the domestication of both species and many more.

Although, in the case of our new whiter-than-white friend, Alaska, a plucky little Muscovy duck, being forgotten has played out well for her. Alas though it does not for literally billions and billions of other animals who are forgotten every year the world over.

Yet only days into our care and coop, little Alaska flew (or was rather driven), not north, but south, to her new forever home. A home which desperately need her company for a lone duck, and one she now shares with other wondrous birds and a kind-hearted human who loves them all very much.

And so, as Alaska has found her true destination, she prompts us to consider if we have found ours. Our true north so to speak.

For many indeed have lost their way in this world. We see this manifested daily, from road rage to wars, from senseless and selfish acts to bullying, animal cruelty and more.

So perhaps the guidance we all need to best land us at our true destination will come when compassion is our compass, as we exercise kindness for all – animals, people and the planet.

*North to Alaska was a 1960s Western/comedy movie starring John Wayne with the “catchy” opening song by the same name. Apologies to all lovers of this song; alas, we are not in your number.