Brave Betsy Crosses the Bridge
Finding courage one careful step at a time
Betsy the cow is nervous about the small farm bridge to the clover pasture. Farmer June checks the bridge, practices with Betsy slowly, and helps her cross only when the path is safe.
Betsy and the Bridge
Betsy loved clover. The sweetest clover grew in the pasture across the small wooden bridge.
The bridge did not cross a rushing stream. It crossed a shallow ditch where rainwater sometimes trickled after storms. Still, Betsy did not like the hollow sound her hooves made on the boards.
“Clop,” went one hoof.
Betsy stepped back.
Farmer June noticed. She patted Betsy’s neck. “We will not hurry.”
First, Farmer June checked the boards and the rails. The bridge was dry, steady, and safe.
Small Practice
Farmer June did not start with the bridge. She placed a wide wooden mat on flat ground near the barn.
“One step,” she said.
Betsy sniffed the mat. Farmer June waited.
At last, Betsy put one hoof on the wood.
“Good,” Farmer June said.
The next day, Betsy walked across the mat. The day after that, Farmer June added a second mat. Betsy learned the sound of wood under her feet while still standing on safe, flat ground.
The Clover Pasture
On a quiet morning, Farmer June led Betsy to the bridge. The other cows grazed nearby, but no one crowded her.
“One step,” Farmer June said.
Betsy placed a hoof on the first board. It made the familiar clop.
She paused.
“Good pause,” said Farmer June.
Betsy took another step, then another. Soon all four hooves stood on the other side.
The clover smelled fresh and sweet.
Back Again
Betsy ate clover until her belly was full. Then Farmer June led her back across the same safe bridge.
This time Betsy still walked slowly, but she did not turn away.
“Brave can be slow,” Farmer June said.
The next week, Betsy crossed when the bridge was dry and Farmer June was with her. If it rained, they used the near pasture instead.
Betsy liked knowing there was always a careful choice.
