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Some days at sanctuary there are sweet stories about what the elephants are doing or a funny anecdote about an interaction, even an adventurous tale of exploration of new yards. Every one of those days brings us joy, as we watch and see a growing, happy, healthy herd.

There are other days, like the one you see here, that are just as important as those with lots of action. This video demonstrates just one small corner of the vast space of sanctuary. The girls (from right to left: Guillermina, Rana, Mara, Pocha, and Bambi) are spending time together, but also have some space to relax and graze. There is plenty more room for them to spread out or even walk away if anyone needs time to herself.

This is a wonderful example of many of the important qualities of sanctuary that we talk about often. There is freedom from the expectations of others; each elephant can choose what to do and who she wants to spend time with; there is no human interference outside of a faraway and unnoticed camera. Healing means building relationships and, though they may be spread out, this is a visual description of growing relationships and comfort between individuals. Moments that might seem uneventful at first glance are actually reflections of progress and comfort. These stretches of quiet allow everyone time to reflect – or not, if they choose otherwise. A seemingly uneventful afternoon actually speaks volumes if you look beyond the surface.