As warmer days approach, and we are all dreaming of flowers and the comfort of gentle weather, I want you to close your eyes and think of jasmine. To be sure this blossom evokes the fullness of summer with blue skies and hummingbirds on the wing...To me, the word also inspires a friendship and the feeling of safety. I have a Donkey friend named Jasmine. In fact, she is "Stormy's" mom, who was featured in my earlier poem; "Old Songs for A New Donkey". Jasmine, when I see her she does nothing short of "hug" me and give me muzzle kisses the whole time I visit. I feel I have known this gentle soul all my life. She so reminds me of a beautiful book by Margaret Wise Brown entitled: "Little Donkey Close Your Eyes". Here is her poem with warm breezes to come, good wishes for this Eastertide, and see you all soon. - Jenny B.

My Dream of Jasmine

Once again, you vow to fall
In love with me
And to protect me
With your kindness.
I feel at home
Like a flower in a garden
A Donkey's home
Is where her heart is.
Yet with all a mother's tender care
I know you are
A gentle warrior
Watching by moonlight
Listening to
The wind of Epona.
Our souls recognize each other
Courteous and close,
I dream of Jasmine in the summer
I close my eyes
And smell your nobleness
Whose mild way of life and temperament
I can rely
To keep all secrets
In your eyes.
You've taught me the grace of working
And the fragrance of faithfulness
A Donkey's life for the common good
A harmony I can stand upon
In solitary places,
Leading my soul's steps to home.