When the Goat Mowed the Yard

If we are curious and observant,

there is ample excitement

and joy all around.

That day, while visiting rural India,

I was simply spending time

at my in-laws’ village home.

I was thrilled to see

a large herd of goats

in the backyard,

an open, sprawling space

dotted with mango, jackfruit, custard apple,

banana, bamboo, and wood apple.

The ground was thick with weeds.

I learned that,

goats are now a favored way

to mow fields even in Western world.

I had read a company California Grazing

recruited 200 goats

for grass maintenance around Google office!

The hungry herbivores forage through

grass and brambles,

leaving behind fecal pellets

that fertilize the soil.

There is no ear-piercing noise

or the burning smell of mineral oil

from regular mowers.

I was delighted to see the goats

busy in this sustainable way of mowing.

The goatherd even picked up a goat kid

so, my child could pet it.

It was a beautiful experience.

I saw harmony with nature

and attuned to health.