Milkmaid and Calf

Have you ever needed to ponder a situation that eventually called for a big decision and others thought they knew better than you what was best? Maybe best in their eyes but bringing chaos into your spirit not peace? Here's a story that comes to mind.

There was a farmer, trying to get a young calf into the barn but the calf could not be persuaded. Nothing worked for him. The farmer became exasperated so tried to force the issue, pushing and prodding the calf from behind trying to get that little calf into the barn...to no avail. 

A milkmaid, observing this dilemma, quietly came up, took a bucket of milk, stuck her thumb in it, then gave her thumb to the calf to suck. She then led the calf leading him directly into the barn!  No fight, no resistance, just a calm calf where the farmer wanted him!

I think we are all a bit like that calf, resisting  others aggressive attempts that try to get us to a point they think we should be at. It never fails to amaze me, however, how we come to answers, especially after praying intently for guidance, trusting the divine to lead us. Yes, often through others but in gentle ways. I think peace vs. chaos answers whether our conclusion was Spirit led or not.  No need for a farmer to push us, only a milkmaid to lead us!

I am a spiritual director, taking new clients. If you would like to subscribe to my blog see: MollyLaFond.com.  If you would like more information on spiritual direction or would like to do spiritual direction with me, contact me at 920.793.3530.

I invite you to share my posts with your friends and relatives.