THE MULE’S PRAYER appeared in L’ALPINO on 31 March 1948.
“To you, my good driver, I address this prayer.
Always give me food and drink, and when my work is done provide me with a comfortable rest; if you cannot give me dry, clean bedding in a wide, airy stall, at least let me rest on level ground, free of mud, sheltered from the wind in the cold seasons and in the shade in summer.
When I refuse my food, look in my mouth: perhaps some trouble with my gums or tongue is stopping me from eating; always tell your superiors about it.
Since I cannot tell you when I am thirsty, give me fresh, clean water often, even while I am working; leave me time to eat all my ration of hay and oats.
Talk to me: your voice is sometimes more effective than the whip and the reins; stroke me often so that I may learn to love you and serve you better.
Check my feet every day, make sure my shoes are firmly on, groom me gently, do not hurt me with the curry comb, use a wet sponge instead.
Do not cut my tail, depriving me of my best defence against the flies and horseflies that torment me.
Do not jerk the reins, and do not whip me on the climbs!
Do not kick me, do not beat me when I do not understand what you want, but help me to understand you.
If I refuse, make sure the bit or the pack-saddle is not out of place and that there is nothing in my feet hurting me. If I shy, do not strike me, but consider that it may be caused by something that stops me from seeing well, or by a defect in my sight.
Do not make me carry a load too heavy for my strength, and make sure the load is well balanced; when I fall, be patient and help me, and if I stumble, remember it is not my fault: think of the rough ground you make me cross, and do not whip me, which makes me fearful and nervous.
If you have a little heart, do not hang on to my tail on the climbs; remember I already have a load to carry and if you let yourself be dragged too, you greatly add to my toil: think how much pain you cause by pulling my poor tail for so long!
Try to shelter me from the sun. At halts, when it is cold or I am sweating, put a blanket on me; but remember to take it off when I work.
Love me, my good driver; take care of me, for in war I will be very useful to you.
I will be your precious friend.”
Related article: The Alpine Mule: from Comrade in Arms to Living Symbol of the Mountains.
