I recently heard a true story that touched me.

I recently heard a true story that touched me and, since many of you are animal lovers as Susan and I are (with us it’s dogs), I thought I’d share it.

It concerns Lawrence Anthony, a legend in South Africa and author of 3 books including the bestseller, The Elephant Whisperer.

He bravely rescued wildlife and rehabilitated elephants all over the globe from human atrocities, including the courageous rescue of Baghdad Zoo Animals during the US invasion in 2003.

On March 7, 2012 Lawrence Anthony died.  

He is remembered and missed by his wife, 2 sons, 2 grandsons, and numerous elephants.

Two days after his passing, wild elephants showed up at his home led by two large matriarchs. Separate wild herds arrived in droves to say goodbye to their beloved 'man-friend.' A total of 31 elephants had patiently walked over 12 miles to get to his South African House.

Witnessing this spectacle, humans were obviously in awe, not only because of the incredible intelligence and precise timing that these elephants sensed about Lawrence's passing, but also because of the profound memory and emotion the beloved animals evoked in such an organized way.

Walking slowly, for days, they made their way in a solemn one-by-one queue from their habitat to his house.  Lawrence's wife, Francoise, was especially touched, knowing that the elephants had not been to his house prior to that day for well over 3 years!

Yet they knew where they were going. The elephants obviously wanted to pay their deep respects, honoring their friend who'd saved their lives – demonstrating so much respect that they stayed for 2 days 2 nights without eating anything.  

Then one morning, they left, making their long journey back home.

So, how did they know Lawrence had passed away?!?!

“For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now. For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God” (Romans 8:22, 19).
BY James Lloyd

Christian Media

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