In Memory of Margaret
Animal Stories from All-Creatures.org

FROM Paula Partenheimer
Facebook post, November 9, 2021

Margaret was a kind soul who lived in a wretched body designed to maximize flesh production at the total cost of her comfort and welfare. She lived in that body for years and somehow managed to find joy, friendship, love, and peace. She shared that with others freely. Be like Margaret.

Please read this beautiful tribute to a precious soul named Margaret. Rest in peace among the angels, sweet girl.

"Margaret liked sitting in my lap. Anyone’s lap, really. She liked physical contact and would croon softly to anyone who obliged. She was gentle and sweet to vulnerable chickens. In her older age, we did not have to separate her from the rest of the flock. She did not overeat and spent most of her time nestled in the straw near the barn doors.

"Here is my favorite story. One of our younger chickens Aurora was missing at the evening count. The animal care director counted and recounted. Aurora was easy to find - she spent her evenings on the floor of the barn or the first perch. The other chickens were less than kind to her (she had a very good friend in Big Red, however).

"Margaret also slept on the floor, her body too large and feet too small to perch on even the lowest bar. The animal care director noticed she looked a bit...larger than normal. So she peeled back a wing and who should she find warm and cozy near Margaret’s breast? Aurora, of course.

"For many nights, Margaret opened her wings to Aurora and arthritic Big Red.

"Margaret was a kind soul who lived in a wretched body designed to maximize flesh production at the total cost of her comfort and welfare.

"She lived in that body for years and somehow managed to find joy, friendship, love, and peace. She shared that with others freely. Be like Margaret."

Written by Marji Beach (fundraising director at Animal Place). If you want to help create a kinder world to honor Margaret and her friends, take the pledge to have a turkey-free Thanksgiving today!

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