Taz & ConniePhoto: Dale Rubury
It’s late in the day and it’s been a rough one. Amy, a snow monkey previously kept as a pet, is getting x-rays for bowel problems and we’re all hoping it’s nothing serious. Chongo has suddenly decided to stop taking his life-supporting medications. (If you think human children can be fussy about taking medications, try a rambunctious, combative young rhesus boy.) Deadlines are fast approaching and a staff member is out sick. Not good, and I’m not done for the day, as more office-related work awaits me at home. I’m well on my way to grumpy-town when packages arrive that need my attention.[teaserbreak]
There are orders to unpack: medications for the monkeys, parts to repair one of the fences, and a new CV half-shaft for the Jeep. And there, amidst all of the items germane to running and maintaining a sanctuary, is the box that fast tracks me to a happier place.
When I open the box, large blue monster toys with wide, open grins stare up at me, ready to be stuffed with monkey treats. Children’s vitamins, brightly labeled, line the bottom of the box, and every spare inch of open space has been packed with delicious pumpkin seeds and protein bars. There are even metal mirrors for the monkeys and I catch my smiling face reflected back to me in one.
Suddenly, the world doesn’t seem so full of pressure, responsibilities, and fear but takes on a brighter appearance. When I sit down to sort through the pictures staff members Shanay Dickey and Dale Rubury have taken, any remaining concerns evaporate.
They’re the latest pictures of 20-year-old Tazman, who has never groomed or been groomed by another monkey. After two years of seemingly endless work, worry, strategizing, monkey psychology, and a series of calculated moves, Taz finally has the breakthrough we’ve all been hoping for. There he quietly sits, eyes half-closed in seeming bliss, as Connie’s delicate fingers gently groom him—and I’m filled with gratitude. Gratitude for our incredibly hard-working, loving, and patient staff. Gratitude for all of the assistance from our compassionate supporters. And, I’m especially thankful for all the opportunities I’m given daily to be a part of something wonderful, healing, and larger than myself.
“Some people are always grumbling because roses have thorns; I am thankful that thorns have roses.” -Alphonse Karr
Wishing you a day full of thankfulness and gratitude,
Tim