I have been told on occasion that I am stubborn. I prefer to think of this trait in myself as tenacity. I generally have the capacity to see something, that I deem worthwhile, through to its finish. I do not give up easily and I can be relentless when it comes to upholding moral convictions.
I have always loved horses, but I have not had the opportunity ever in my life, to have one, nor to spend much time in their presence. However; I recently learned some things about donkeys. They are the native wild African ass, which is now a critically endangered species. They belong to the same family as horses (Equidae) but they have been cross-bred with horses to produce mules. Donkeys are better suited to warmer climates. They have longer ears, but smaller hooves than horses. They are not as easily intimidated as horses. They are physically strong, being able to carry four times their body weight, and have often been used as beasts of burden. Their intelligence rivals that of dogs and dolphins since they have the ability to problem solve. Their natural inclination to caution, serves their sense of self-preservation, but many view this as stubbornness.
Mules are the result of a cross between a paternal donkey and a maternal horse. This makes them stronger than their mothers and better able to endure severe weather. They rarely succumb to illness and they inherit their father’s intelligence. They have excellent memories. A hinny is the opposite – they have a donkey for a mother and a horse for a father. Neither mules nor hinnies can reproduce because they lack an even number of chromosomes.
When treated right, donkeys can live to around 40 years of age and mules to age 50. They are affectionate and can form lasting bonds with other pastured animals, dogs, and humans. They are fiercely loyal, but when trust is broken, they will never forget. I think that I too, am as stubborn as a mule.
