KALAW / MYANMAR 20°43’52.7”N 96°29’55.0”E
“A dog comes to you and lives with you in your own house, but you do not therefore own her, as you do not own the rain, or the trees, or the laws which pertain to them…A dog can never tell you what she knows from the smells of the world, but you know, watching her, that you know almost nothing.” - Mary Oliver
humans have a natural curiosity about the relationships that can be built with animals. The possibility draws many of us in from childhood; we read countless story books and fables about friendships with animals, and we long for that connection. The stories, written by adults who have maintained that same longing, depict a world where close interactions with other species are a part of everyday life. Many of us feel that instinct to connect with animals, even those of us who live far removed from nature; perhaps it is why we invite pets into our homes. Others live near nature and wild animals, and forge relationships and partnerships of a different kind. Sometimes our human-animal relationships are beautiful friendships, but sometimes, like some human relationships, they can be built on control instead of trust and respect. Sensitive, intelligent, and loving, elephants are one of the animals at the center of our society’s questioning of the purpose of our non-human counterparts on this planet. They have not only led us to wonder about the bonds that might be forged with such captivating animals, but they have also become a symbol of what we stand to lose should we destroy nature or wildlife. The strength of the relationships that can exist between humans and elephants is undeniable. These relationships have been fostered for generations in several countries including Myanmar, with elephants at the center of industries, religious ceremonies, and other activities involving them as laborers or participants. Some, but not all, of these relationships are based on mutual respect and good treatment. In relationships where animals are utilized to serve a human purpose, whether they are working relationships or pet-owner relationships, it can be challenging to foster a sense of equality and mutual respect instead of ownership and control. If we want to truly know animals, it might be worth reflecting on the possibility of a more balanced relationship dynamic. A relationship with an animal is a powerful thing. Many of us are disconnected from nature and the physical world, from each other, and from our sense of what it means to be alive as animals ourselves on this planet. Animals can be our greatest allies, bringing us closer to both the wildness of the earth and to our own sense of humanity. Just like when we try to tame nature, when we claim ownership and control of an animal, we lose the opportunity to learn and grow in a deeper and more grounding way. A loving relationship with an animal can teach us something valuable about the world – and if we are attentive enough, about ourselves.
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MOTHER VOLUME ONE
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