The Old Goat

There is a goat living near our plant shed. I see it every morning during my walk to check on things. That may seem obsessive, but in Florida there are insects and animals and diseases that can destroy your growing efforts in only a few days, so they must be recognized and reckoned with quickly. This smallish goat appears old and he loiters near the basil, never eating, never tipping the pots, never disturbing anything. He seems vigilant, but silent. I think he is simply weathering time, watching over things, maybe worrying about things he can do nothing about, but feeling that his presence makes everything safe. I have come to believe there is truth in that.