This is why our plan is to share the Farm with a small herd of water buffalo.  We first met this animal while living in Nepal, and they are ideal. Their milk is richer than that of cows and lacks the proteins which trouble the lactose-intolerant. They are the source of Mozzarella cheese. Their meat is leaner than beef. They have a meaningful place in contemporary Christian culture. But best of all, if socialized, they are sensitive and even affectionate.

As one author put it,  “Despite an intimidating appearance, the water buffalo is one of the gentlest of farm animals. It is more like a household pet – social, gentle, and serene. In rural Asia the care of water buffaloes is often turned over to small boys and girls aged about four to nine.”

And, in a passage rich with suggestive biblical metaphor, “Unlike cattle, most buffaloes are not trained to be driven. Instead, the herdsman must walk alongside or ahead of them; they then instinctively follow.”