Dear Teacher,
The world's loneliest sheep fell off a cliff when she was young and has spent the last two years stranded at the bottom. But thanks to five farmers who put their own well-being at risk for her, she's not lonely anymore.
In 2021, Fiona was spotted by a canoeist at the bottom of a remote Scottish cliff. At the time, several organizations attempted rescues, but they all determined that the situation was too dangerous and that nothing could be done. Yet, in October, a farmer and sheep-lover named Cameron Wilson saw Fiona's story and felt compelled to help. So he gathered some friends and they set out to execute an incredibly complicated rescue.
They made their way down to Fiona's cave, located and secured her, but they hadn't anticipated just how large Fiona had become. As it turns out, without much else to do, Fiona had been overeating the grass around her, making the climb even more dangerous. Still, the farmers hoisted her up to the most difficult part of the job: The steep rock face at the top. Here, they place Fiona into a canvas feed bag and then, using an ATV, winched her up the steepest area. It was an emotional moment with Fiona finally at the top where the group could breathe a sigh of relief.
Once rescued, she had 20 pounds of excess wool shorn from her. Thanks to her rescuers, Fiona is now living her best sheep life at an animal sanctuary where she is pampered and provided for.
And you, Teacher, there in your classroom, are making valiant rescue attempts yourself. You locate students who are stranded -- stuck in dysfunctional families, patterns, or behaviors, and you feel compelled to help. Despite recognizing that the process will be incredibly complicated, you hoist these student up the steep climb: First to functionality, then to potential, and finally to success. And likely there are emotional moments along the way -- Moments of exhaustion, overwhelm, and frustration. Yet, with every sheep rescued, you reflect the Heavenly Shepherd and His passion for each Lost Sheep.
"Then he led out his people like sheep and guided them in the wilderness like a flock."
~Psalm 78:52 ESV
Attempting Rescues With You,
Mindy
Christian Educator & School Counselor