The sanctuary of your heart

You may often see us referring to an animal arriving “at sanctuary” rather than arriving “at the sanctuary.” This is not a typo, and we have not had a mind blank and omitted “the”. It is a deliberate grammatical choice that invites hearts and minds to explore a deeper, more expansive understanding of what sanctuary truly represents.

When we say, “they arrived at sanctuary”, it goes beyond simply describing a place. Sanctuary becomes a symbol of something much bigger that transcends the physical. It symbolises a haven of emotional and spiritual safety. It’s a reflection of a commitment to care, compassion and protection — something rooted as much in our hearts and minds as it is in the land itself.

Once an animal or human arrives at sanctuary, they enter a realm of compassion that transcends geography. It becomes a way of living, a movement and a purpose. This transformation is not just theoretical, we see it time and again in the lives of those who find refuge here.

We saw this when the fearful slaughterhouse escapee, Captain Courageous, arrived at sanctuary. At first, he would run from our presence, his body would tremble, his eyes were wide with terror as he struggled to take his place in the serene flock. But all of that has changed as today, several years on, Captain Courageous is the true captain of his destiny.

His eyes are now soft, his body calm, his place in the world firm and it is to us he chooses to run.

There too is a philosophical dimension to this notion of sanctuary.  Just as “Country” in Indigenous contexts encompasses not just land but a holistic concept of connection, culture and spirit, “sanctuary” in this sense invites the idea that Edgar’s Mission embodies more than just a shelter for animals. It’s a living representation of the principles of kindness, non-violence and the profound respect for all life.

It fosters the belief that sanctuary is everywhere compassion and care are extended — thus, it’s more than a fixed location; it’s a movement, a purpose and a way of living.

Omitting “the” also elevates Edgar’s Mission’s purpose. This subtle underscoring reminds that sanctuary is a fundamental and universal necessity. It offers a sense of timelessness, as though we are participating in a long-standing tradition of sanctuaries throughout history, without being limited to one place.

This speaks to the connectedness of sanctuaries through time and across borders, to a place where there are no borders or time constraints.

In short, using “sanctuary” without “the” shifts the perception of Edgar’s Mission from a specific place to an ethos, inviting others to see sanctuary as an ever-present space for protection, care and transformation for all beings.

And the best place to start living that ethos is in your heart. A place where every act of kindness, no matter how small, creates a sanctuary of the world.

I am truly blessed to live and be of service here at sanctuary — something I reflect on daily. None of this would be possible without the kind and generous support of you, dear reader. Your compassion is what fuels Edgar’s Mission and what makes all the difference.

From the bottom of my grateful heart, I wish you and your family a safe, happy, healthy and kind festive season.