Tales of Moo and Poo

Since moving to Wales in mid-January, we’ve learned a lot of interesting facts about farm life in this country. For example, lambing season generally takes place in March and April, which means we’re privileged to watch little lambs scamper around the fields. So cute! Also, because of the long, wet winters, the cows are usually kept in the barns until spring. The main reason for this is that the ground becomes so wet and soggy that it is easy for the cows to break their legs. Not good! So, until recently, the cows on the farm here were heard but not seen as they were locked away in the barn.

A couple of weeks ago, the shepherd moved around a few sheep (as I mentioned in my earlier post) and led the cows into the back field—the one directly beside and behind our borrowed home. For a child who collected cow figurines and plush animals when I was younger, I now find cows far less attractive than sheep. Some of them, in fact, are a bit scary-looking.

But that’s not the part I’ve minded the most. No, the thing we have to get accustomed to at this point is the smell. Oh, gracious! When there were dozens of sheep out in the field, we could see lush, green grass. Now, with just a dozen cows, we look out and see a minefield. Large mounds of—well, um, poo—litter the pasture and permeate the air. One step out the door reminds us the cows are near.  Maybe a bit too near for my sensitive nostrils.

As Jason and I went for a walk down the farm road-turned-minefield, dodging the steaming piles of droppings, I was reminded of a Bible verse. Yes, I know that seems strange, but to be honest, the verse to which I’m referring has a humorous air about it. Yet, it also reminds us of a vital lesson about life. Have I piqued your curiosity? Good. Here’s the verse:

“Where no oxen are, the crib is clean: but much increase is by the strength of the ox. ”

— Proverbs 14:4

Isn’t that a great verse? I’ve written a devotion or two about it before, but I felt I needed to address it again. There’s so much truth in these words. Where no oxen are, the crib is clean. Makes sense, right? No oxen means no oxen poo, just as no cows in the field means no cow poo. It sounds like a good deal until we consider the latter part of the verse: but much increase is by the strength of the ox. Sure, we could give up the ox and all the poo that goes with it, but we also give up the advantages. We give up our means to plow and tow. Likewise, with the cows, to get rid of the cows is to eliminate the poo. However, it also eliminates milk and a very tasty meat. I don’t know about you, but I love a good hamburger, ribeye steak, or a big plate of beef tacos. Those delicious meals don’t happen without the cows!

What’s so great about this verse is that its application isn’t limited to farm animals. No, it applies to every single area of life. Let me show you what I mean.

Where no dishes are, the kitchen is clean: but food is much easier to eat with the use of a plate and utensils.

Where no clothes are, the laundry never has to be done: but much warmth—not to mention modesty—is gained through our garments.

Where no car is, gasoline is not required: but many miles are easier to cover with a vehicle.

Where no job is, there is more time for hobbies: but most hobbies don’t make money to live on.

Where no husband is, the floor is free of dirty socks: but many happy days and precious memories are made with the husband.

Where no children are, the house is clean: but much joy and happiness is derived from the children.

Where no rain is, the hikers can hike: but many beautiful blooms and rainbows are made possible by the water from above.

Do you see what I mean? Sure, we can look at everything and everyone around us and see only the negative—or the poo, if you will. Or, we can remember that while there is a poo, there’s also a moo. There’s something to be gained, noticed, or admired. There’s a benefit and blessing. There are two sides to every coin and two perspectives to every situation.

So, the next time you’re tempted to complain about the poo in your life, stop and take the time to notice the moo. You’ll be glad you did.