Delphi because of the formaldahyde on her feet.
Tonya Wilson, Memphis, TN
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Haven't decided yet....as a matter of fact, i can't help but love them all equally.
Cynthia Chen, San Francisco, CA.
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I identify with Billie. We were both born in 1953, had difficult early years and suffer some lasting anxiety. Miss Billie is a daily inspiration to me.
Dianne Upton, Bellevue, Washington
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I love all the elephants and wish I had 10 million $$$ that I could donate to the sanctuary.
Dorothy Brousseau, Auburn, NH
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Billie, dear Billie. I also sat and wept when I read my latest copy of Trunklines. I remember watching Billie get off the transport trailer when she arrived at TES. She and Frieda just made me cry. On the one hand, I was joyous that her days of being shackled are over, but so sad that she seemed broken and sad. I am so, so happy that dear Billie is learning to trust people and to learn that her sisters Liz and Frieda will comfort her and not harm her. I really wonder what the Divas did to Billie to make her so afraid of them. Maybe Minnie rammed into her with all her girth? Whatever the reason, dear, angelic Billie... you are forever safe now, my sweet. You are an inspiration!
Stacey, California
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I just received my recent Trunklines Newsletter and my heart is breaking for Billie. That poor girl was tortured with a tractor. I have always gravitated towards Billie because I also have suffered so much in my life. Unlike Billie, I have yt to find a guardian angel but I am still looking. Bless you all in Hohenwald for accepting and loving Billie and trying to heal her wounds. Those who punished her will not go unpunished, either in this lifetime or in the hereafter.
HW, Maine
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Zula is my girl! She is the most beautiful and impressive elephant at TES and her history is so sad. I just have a soft spot for her!
Audrey Mealiff, Republic of Ireland
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Since Tina is gone now (rest her soul) I think that I am really starting to warm up to Sissy.
The way she carries her tire around with her is so touching and it made me cry when she left it on Tina's grave for a few days after Tina was layed to rest.
I knew animals have feelings but for her to leave the most precious thing to her on Tina's grave, just really touched me in a way that no other animal has.
Thank You to all the caretakers and everyone involved at the Sanctuary for all you have done and continue to do!!
My thoughts and prayers are with you everyday.
Dayna Kent, Edmonton Alberta (formerly from BC)
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I guess I have most identified with Shirley and Jenny because of their amazing mother-daughter relationship but Lota also inspired me to act. What a courageous trooper she was to the end and thank God she finally got to sanctuary before she died.
Nancy, Edmonds, WA
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Shirley and Jenny
Sheila, West Midlands. UK
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I think I identify with Delhi. I just feel so badly for her after what she endured.
J. E. Sumner, Pennsylvania
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Watching Sissy enjoying the water, after her trauma, makes me so happy. The safety she feels at the sanctuary, even though she still needs the security of her tire, is beyond words.
b, WA
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All of them because the idea of elephants roaming freely in Tennessee is just too wonderful! But Bunny the most because she has the sweetest face.
Anne, Albuquerque
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Sissy - we have both seen abuse, endured and now enjoy freedom in the sun.
Sharron Rush, Rancho Cordova CA
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Sissy, mostly because she is a survivor and also because Sissy is my nickname.
She appealed to me because of all the abuse she endured and survived. She stayed sweet. I love that she has to have the tire. Smart girl to know how to pacify herself!
Loretta, Pt. Charlotte, Fl.
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I love Delhi because she was the one who "told" me about the Sanctuary, but I would have to say I identify with Sissy because she's kind of quiet, sweet (not that I always am!), a good friend, been through a lot but doesn't let that stop her and gotta love a girl who carries a spare tire around with her most places she goes!
Lisa McDowell, New Market, AL
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Sissy! I'm from El Paso and my heart broke when I saw the video footage of her experience at the El Paso Zoo. Thank God she is no longer suffering but enjoying her life as an elephant should be - FREE!
Denise Aranda, El Paso Texas
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The African Queens. They are so beautiful!!
To think of how they were taken from their herds by culling and forced into a foreign world.
They know now that they are safe and loved, and they enjoy every minute of their freedom.
They are just beautiful and when they flare out their ears, you just realize how truly magnificent they are.
DMK, USA
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Queenie, Lottie and Ronnie. Because no one else mentioned them! Queenie is a sweet being, Lottie a serious matriarch with a dry sense of humor, and Ronnie is full of spunk! But, I identify most with Billie, Frieda and Liz because they are so damaged. Although, I am so happy that they are coming out of their shells.
Cathy, Haddon Heights, NJ
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I identify most with Sissy. The poor girl has been through so much suffering. Her story is one of prevailing and beating the odds, even when the odds are against you and I can relate to that. I cried when I read her story. I am so happy that she is at the sanctuary today.
Kelly Spencer, South Plainfield, NJ
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Misty--She taught me that elephants can RUN.
Errol, Galveston, TX
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Bunny! I first met her in 1996 when I moved to Evansville days after my honeymoon in Kenya, where the huge herds of elephants just blew my mind. Then just a few days later, seeing Bunny trapped in her tiny enclosure with those pressure sores was simply heartbreaking by comparison. She was amazingly responsive to me whenever I could spend more than an hour by her indoor enclosure, and I realized from that willingness to interact just how much she needed it. She would ignore folks who just came to gawk, but my patience always paid off. She would give me pieces of straw, stretching to reach through the bars; it took my breath away every time! She soon recognized me and would wave at me when I arrived! I can't express my joy at having the Sanctuary give her such a wonderful life, bless you all. Oh, and I also love her because my nickname is Bunny.
Bunny, Columbus, Ohio
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Delhi - I love them all, you are right, but Delhi was born the same year I was - 1946. She is so wonderful and has been through so much. I try and keep up with her condition. I don't want to bother ya'll too often asking but I appreciate when I do that you give me such details about Dehli. Thank you.
Gail Bartlett, Hernando, Mississippi
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Dulary is gorgeous, but they all are. I am always drawn the the most needy, least healthy or most closed off individual in any group.
D. J. Green, Dallas, TX
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Of course Shirley, my namesake. But I would have cherished her just for her poor ragged ear,damaged leg and motherliness! Seeing her loving care of Jenny was so special to me.
Shirley Green, Painesville, Ohio
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first is flora because she is so strong and beautiful, and she was orphaned just like me. Next would be
debbie because we share the same name
deborah lore, pevely missouri
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I do love each and every one of the Sanctuary's elephants and am so happy that they have been given a second chance, but the saga of Sue has left a hole in my heart. She is the Diva who died on December 30, 2005, even after above and beyond heroic efforts of Sanctuary staff and all others involved to try and save her life. She was only 30 days away from finally leaving that cold, windowless Illinois warehouse in where she had spent the last 2 years living in chains in horrific conditions along with her sisters who would soon find freedom in early 2006.
Linda, New York
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Tarra. She grew up diffierent from her peers, like me. Then when she was supposed to fit in it was hard. I know that feeling. And sometimes your best friend is your dog! Tarra knows how to socialize nicely but after awhile it's off for some alone time with her dog. I can relate. Can't wait until the cameras show us Tarra again.
rosemarie sarra, Wilmington, DE
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I was first very attached to Jenny and Shirley. They made me laugh and cry. I am deeply aware of Winkie and her depth of fear, we have similar problems. I have watched Dulary come from the zoo to TES, and have been incredibly touched by her step into freedom. I am continually connected to the mud baths the Africans so need and love. I feel blessed to be able to watch the girls at TES via the fabulous use of technology and know that my experience seeing them will never harm them.
Mickey, Victoria, B.C. Canada
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My students and I found TES about 2 years ago and have since been following its incredible growth. We even started a club called "Southbound Pachyderms" to raise money for "the girls." Through watching the girls on the elecam and reading about their former lives, my students have become aware of the plight of captive elephants. If I have to pick a favorite, it would have to be Sissy. Seeing her with "tire" warms my heart every time...especially when she takes it into the swimming hole! What a character! Thank you Carol, Scott, et. al., for allowing us a peek into such a special world.
Lynn, San Diego, California
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I love Delhi's spirit!!!
Barbara, Virginia
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I identify most with Shirley as I share her name and her birth year. She and Jenny touched me with their love for each other.
Shirley Johns, Baltimore, MD
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This is a hard one. But I think I would choose LOTA. My heart really went out to her. I thank God and the Sanctuary that she had a few months of happiness. Then I would choose Misty. The way she stood by Lota and now the way she is enjoying the peace and happines at her new home. She seems to have a smile on her face, meant for Lota.
Oh well, I guess I love them all. Like I said this is a hard one.
Bev Saul, Livingston, NJ
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Bunny because she is from my hometown and I grew up with this very sweet natured elephant. I miss her but she has a much better life now at the Sanctuary.
Mary Jo, Evansville, Indiana
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I truly love Dehli. I never gave captive elephants a second thought until Dehli's story came out. Dehli had taken the abuse of many for so long, yet she remained gracious and forgiving. I wish TES would provide more pictures and info on Dehli as her health is not good. Better to grieve a little at a time, than a lot at once.
Jan, Oklahoma
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Sissy has struggled through many horrible zoos, confinements, conditions and still prevails as a kind and caring elephant leader.
Gail, Las Cruces, NM
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Billie. I love all of them but Billie tugs the most on my heart strings. I have been lonely for much of my life and sad, and I know Billie has been tortured for a long time. I hope and pray she lives a long life at TES so she can finally know some love and compassion. I hope for more stories about Liz, Frieda and Billie, my favorites. The Diva's just seem a little pushy. I know they suffered too and I love 'em, but Liz, Frieda and Billie are more elderly and need more attention.
TLC, Baton Rouge, Louisiana
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While I relate to Sissy the most, and am so very grateful she is now at TES, Tarra is our "firstborn", and I believe we tend to take her for granted..such a lovely, happy girl. Thank you Tarra (& Carol & Scott) for TES!
name withheld, KY
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Two of them actually. Tange, for the spirited child in her that wants to get along with everyone......and Tarra, for her need to meet and greet and make sure everyone else is happy.
Laura Cotter, NJ
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Shirley!!! because I used to stand at Monroe zoo and look her in the eye and wish for a better life for her. To look into her eyes was to see an age old wisdom and patience beyond measure. I miss Shirley but I am so glad she has found a family and is in a more natural setting. Happy New Year to Shirley and all of the girls at TES
Ann Smith, Arcadia,La.
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Tarra, Shirley and Jenny are my favourites. Love them all but those three really captured my heart in their own way. Shirley the grand matriarch full of wisdom, Jenny the spoilt girl with her adventure, Tarra the girl of freedom and everyone's friend.
Julian, Sydney, Australia
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I believe I have the most affinity with Jenny and Shirley. I am connected to Winkie as we share the same disorder. Dulary captured me because she was the first I saw from zoo to Sanctuary.
Mickey, Victoria, B.C. Canada
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Tina absolutely stole my heart. I couldn't believe an elephant could vocalize like that. And then there is Tarra with an absolute heart of gold. She just seems to love everybody on two legs or four. Sissy also because in spite of her mistreatment she reaches out to everyone. I could go on and on.
Sue, Texas
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Delhi because she is rolly-polly, like me!
Cathy, Tulsa, OK
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Shirley and Jenny. Them finding each other after all those years and still loving each other as though they had never been apart. A friends love story...friends forever...
Dana, Defuniak Springs Florida
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My sweet Shirley, of course. I love her so...
Brenda Morris, Louisiana
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My precious Winkie. I am a little Winkie, still learning to trust and believe that everything will be alright.
Sylvie, Canada
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I love them all but Misty is so bouncy and full of energy and she gets so happy when new elephants come to the sanctuary! Just look at how she took Dulary in and made her a best friend! She is so wrinkly and cute I just love her and want to give her a big hug and kiss!!
Rose K., Phila Pa.
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I love Delhi's spirit
Barbara, Virginia
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Billie. My heart is always drawn to those (animal or human)who are afraid or reserved. Thank you TES for both her wonderful home and meeting her special needs with extra fences, elephants she can be friends with, choices about the chain and more. It was great to see the pictures of her playing with Minnie's toy!!
Kay, FL
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Four elephants stand out for me. The first is Bunny who arrived from a monastic existence with her brown ball companion in tow. I fell in love with this gal the minute I saw her, maybe because she jumped right in without hesitation. I remember Carol saying something about how Bunny stood silently transfixed by the forest before her, something she hadn’t seen in many years. Her cheeky sense of humour, ability to evade the elecam, and her adventurous nature made me fall head over heels. The second is sweet-natured, patient and generous Sissy. I will never forget how kind she was to Tina who was standoffish in the beginning. I also have enormous respect for Sissy’s courage in overcoming her horrendous past. I have no doubt that Sissy is keenly aware of the goodness of the humans who rescued her. Number three is the gregarious “plumpkin” Misty, because in spite of losing Lota and surviving the Hawthorn “concentration camp” she is nothing but joyful. Like all of the elephants, she has a smile that could stop rain, drive clouds away, and make the sun shine. Finally there’s Liz, who arrived gaunt and frail with dark circles around wary sad eyes. The sight of her bruised my heart. But now, as could have been predicted, her eyes sparkle with happiness as she roams safe and expansive lands with loving companions. If these four stand out for me it is because at the right place and the right time they reached me. For this reason, I suppose, they can be called favourites; however, I'd like to say that all of the gals stand out. They are all special and equal where my love is concerned.
Lesley, Vancouver, BC
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I identify with Delhi. Her story was unfolding when I found The Sanctuary site. She is also the same age as me. I love all the other girls but Delhi captured my heart the first time I saw her.
Edna Bowman, Baxter, Tennessee
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I love Tarra's big fuzzy head!
Noni, Brooklyn, NY
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Briefly, Misty is my guardian elephant. It was only a year or two before I came to know of the Sanctuary that my dear cat Misty died after 13 years of close, loving companionship. Her last years were spent in great pain and distress, and focussing my small contributions on your Misty seemed a way to pay my respects to the memory of my Misty and all I owe her for the devoted, loving years we shared.
Robert Ostermann, Tempe AZ
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Winkie. We are both healing and I in many ways thanks to her story.
Kaye, Alexandria, VA
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Wow, that's a hard one. I was very, very drawn to Lota. I loved Tina, her smile, and those who helped get her shoes. But if I had to choose among those still in their earthly body, it would be Delhi. Wish I could explain why I identify with any of them-I can't. There is just "something"...
Kathy, Florida
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We all love the elephants.
I grew up with Winkie
Jenifer Bender, Madison, Wisconsin
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I have read alot of these comments and hope TES will leave them up for us to continue to read.
Jenifer,
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Hohenwald. Jenny. Enough Said.
Jenny, Rochester, NY
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Sissy. She certainly is a survivor! Even with all she has in her new life at TES, she still clings to Tyre.
Barbara , Memphis, TN
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Bunny. For some reason, years ago, I started calling my cat Bunny and telling her she's the best bunny ever... so for that simple/odd reason, Bunny is my pick (though I do love them all)
Carrie, Chicago
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I identify with Dulary because I have known her since she first arrived at the Philadelphia Zoo. I am touched by her love of people, despite being taken from her elephant family at a very young age. During my observation, she has always been curious about and respectful of people, actually seeking out their attention. I suspect that the transition from a lot of interaction with humans, and none with other elephants, during her lonely existence at the Philadelphia Zoo, to life at TES, in which she needed to learn about being part of an elephant family with less human contact, was a big adjustment for her. Yet, in typical Dulary fashion, she rose to the occasion and made elephant friends while learning to respect and interact with humans in a new way. This will certainly be to her benefit and enjoyment as she continues to thrive at the sanctuary. I will always love Dulary. I am happy beyond measure for her life at the sanctuary. Yet, there is a real emptiness knowing that I will never be able to see her again.
Linda G, Philadelphia, PA
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Delhi and Misty
Sandi, Chelmsford, MA
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Because I work with veterans recovering from the horrors of post traumatic stress disorder, I identify with Winkie. Her struggle follows the same path very much like the armed services personnel I have had the honor of serving. Every elephant that has lived at the Elephant Sanctuary is a survivor…and, a hero.
Beverly, South Carolina
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Sissy! I just adore her! She is always a true friend to all, always there in the good times and especially supportive in the tough times. She is a strong being and I admire her--and all she has been through--and the way she has thrived.
Sharon, Athens, AL
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Dulary. My grandparents took me to the Philadelphia zoo when I was 4 years old to meet her. I returned year after year after year and in time, took my children to meet her.
Linda M. Weber, Sheridan, Wyoming
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I identify the most with Bunny. She loves nature and is a bit of a loner but also loves her friends, just like me.
Rachel, Connecticut
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Shirley. Her story is truly amazing. From the ship fire to her stay at the zoo to her reunion with Jenny and her calm loving nature that brought the family together. I keep a photo of her on my desk at work. She gives me peace when I need it throughout the day.
Angie, California
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Delhi. I really don't know why. I just love her.
Cora Moore, Decatur, GA
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This is hard to answer because all of the eles. are so dear and special in their own way but I think Tina affected me profoundly by her long suffering patience while at the zoo in Vancouver, her gentleness, smiley face, courage while sick and enormous amounts of grace when she finally left us. What an inspiration to us all.
Chriss, BC. Canada
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Tina. Dear Tina brought so many people together...especially on Friday evenings after the African barn cam shut down. Asian barn cam would come on and friends would gather for a few hours of companionship and watching our dear girl.
Friday nights will never be the same.
Merilee, California
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Definitly Lota because she was from the Milwaukee, WI county zoo. Milwaukee is my home town.
Candace, Milwaukee, WI
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Delhi holds a very special place in my heart. I first learned about captive elephants when she was still in quarantine. After her horrible life, there she was playing soccer despite her sore feet, defeating the odds with her disease, climbing fences... and then, that joyful twinkle in her eye. She is a good mentor. Well, so are they all but if I have to pick one ele, it is Delhi.
Colleen Perrin, Toronto, Canada
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I grew up with Winkie in Madison, Wisconsin, and I was thrilled to know someone had rescued her. Also, my heart bled for her and Joanna, but I knew she would find peace there
Louise, San Francisco, California
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Shirley will always be my favorite because she started it all. But I adore Tarra's funny, bubbly ways.
Jennifer, New York
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Identify with, that is tough. Which one do I love most? Also tough. Which one do I identify with, Winkie, because ahe was often left out and misunderstood.
name withheld, usa
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This is an extremely difficult question to answer. My first favourite was Winkie. Although I never lived in a zoo, my life experience was similar to hers. Now my favourite elephant changes regularly. Just when I think I have a favourite, one of the other girls does something endearing. It's like picking a favourite child. Can I pick Carol Buckley?
Anitacanuck, Canada
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Bunny - my first elephant for whom I sent money. She is the same age as I am! The elephants are wise to things that we can only dream about.
Pam Heckman, Rochester New Hampshire
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If I have to select just one...I think it would be Delhi. She has suffered so much with such dignity and stamina, and still has time to befriend newcomers and to play with her barn-mates.
Jane Stanley, Toronto, Canada
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Of course I like Shirley and Jenny but I have to say since Misty has come I'm her favorite fan. She is a friend to the sick, has great patience and loves her caregivers.She is the silliest elephant Carol has ever seen and thats enough for me.Shes always up for some fun and has a cheerful attitude from what i has seen and heard although Ive never met her live I know she is still there...
sharon, florida
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Jenny. Jenny was in that filthy stall in Vegas. She was chained, she was terribly underweight. Then I watched on the Vegas news Jenny being loaded backwards into her trailer to lead her to a new life. Then her reunification with Shirley on The Urban Elephant. Oh my! The flood of tears that inspired. Jenny had been beaten, abused, ignored and treated so brutally. Yet that little limping angel forgave all and embraced her life at the Sanctuary, always laughing and running and bonding with others. I love you, Jenny!
Carl, Georgia
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Gosh, this is so hard to answer. I think I loved Tina the most. Beautiful, puffy Tina with her hooded eyes and her sensitive feet. I had just lost my brother and I would stay up to watch Tina's feedings at night. I loved how she shook the grain out of her milk bottle. She was so beautiful and special. Watching this dear girl helped me heal from the death of my brother. I loved Tina. I also love the tender trio: Billie, Lizzie and Frieda. Please give them kisses from me.
Annie, VT
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Tina possessed qualities that I strive for as a being of this earth.
Ginny (Lolo), La Quinta, CA
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I am Misty's big fan because she is a loyal friend to the sick.She loves her caregivers.She craves fun,is enthusiastic and has not let her bad luck get her down!!She has a curious mind and silly playfulness. And I don't even know her personally (just thru videos)!!!I just wish I was as cheerful!!I wish I could still watch her
sharon, FL
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Jenny and Shirley brought me to TES after watching The Urban Elephant. I have been so heartbroken about Jenny's passing. Thank goodness Shirley has good friends to help her healing.
Sandra, Wyoming
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Shirley - because our town had the foresight to know to do the right thing and send her where she could flourish. Meeting Jenny - the icing on the cake. We miss her of course, but know she's so happy there. All of the elephants are inspirations to everyone who knows about them and so it is extremely hard to pick just 1! I wish every living being at the Sanctuary (both great and small) ...all the best for 2008. Give those big ears a rub from Monroe.
Ginger, West Monroe, La
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I pick Liz, she is the cheerleader for the two most misunderstood & dysfunctional Hawthorne eles,Freida & Billie. She's made a huge difference in their lives. She also came from Bensons & I remember her as a young ele.
Carol, Windham, NH
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That is hard to answer, each have special peices of my herat. I guess Sissie comes to mind first and dear Lota, Barbie, Habibati (Arabic for my love) Jennie, and Sweet Shirley...ok, ok,, all of them, I can't decide.
Marsha, Old Hickry TN
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I have been reading about all the elephants for months and have made TES my home page so I visit every day. I know Winkie personally; she is from the Henry Vilas Zoo in Madison, Wisconsin. I use to visit her when I was a child and always hated that she was in such a small area. I am so glad she has all that room to roam and friends to roam with. Please give her a kiss from me. I know she will remember me cuz elephants never forget.
Thank you all for taking such good care of the girls. Happy New Year :-)
Jenifer Bender, Madison, Wisconsin
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Tina. She possessed the qualities I always strive for as a being of this earth.
Ginny, La Quinta, CA
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Impossible to answer, I love them all so much!
Kim, USA
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I love Delhi's spirit!!
Barbara, Virginia
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shirley - because that's my name
shirley walter, ocala, fl
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My heart goes out to all of the elephants, but I most identify with the elephants who show joy and resiliency, even though they have faced such turmoil in their lives. It is especially touching to see the elephants at the sanctuary bond with one another as if they have known them their entire lives.
Leslie Caspersen, Florida
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Although my first comments were about Billie, I have felt connected to Shirley as well. I suppose it's because of the touching video of her move, but she was born the same year I was. And she's the first ele t shirt that I bought.
Nancy Lewis, Seattle WA
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Sissy! She captured my heart from the beginning and I've been so happy to see her becoming, healthy, strong and happy. I also adore all the photos of her carrying the 'security tire' around, she's a girl after my own heart!
Chris Bailey, Austin, Texas
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Sissy because she was so horribly beaten, but can still differentiate good humans from bad humans.
Delhi because she looked so downtrodden and uncomfortable when she first arrived. But when I saw pictures of her taking a nap, I knew she would stick around for a while.
Misty, "The Killer Elephant", because she is, as Carol puts it, so cheeky. I think she's such a squirrel and such a loving elephant. Another ele capable of differentiating between good humans and bad humans. I laughed when I read how she gave John Cuneo one last smack as she was about to board the truck. It was the kind of thing I would have done!! You go, girl.
And then there's....well, all of them.
Janet, Cambridge MA
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Flora, because i knew her life in St. Louis which was alone. and she is troubled trough no fault of her own. she would be dead without you.
clara's friend, st. louis
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I love Delhi's spirit!!
Barbara, Virginia
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Tange. I fell in love with her when I saw the picture of her in the tire-hat. What a joyous spirit she is!
Betty, Raleigh, NC
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Sissy is my favorite!
Ellies Rule!, Cincinnati, OH
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I identify with Lota. It still breaks me up that she had such little time in the sunshine, but at least she had a few precious months. Her life was one of constant torture for so many long, long years. I will never forget when I saw that gaunt face coming out of the truck when she arrived at the barn. I was stunned and felt in my heart that she couldn't live long. She didn't, but she lives on in my heart forever.
Marley, Maine
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Yes, I LOVE them all....Bunny was shares the same birth year as I do, while I don't wear trees or haystack hats, I like to think I have a similar personality.....I think we may just share a similar 'rear view'!
Susan, B.C., Canada
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Yes, I LOVE them all....Bunny was shares the same birth year as I do, while I don't wear trees or haystack hats, I like to think I have a similar personality.....I think we may just share a similar 'rear view'!
Susan, British Columbia, Canada
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I think I most identify with Bella! I know, she's not an elephant... but she gets to be close to an elephant!
Mary Wilson, Gabriola Island, BC, Canada
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Minnie!!! My grandmother's name. They seem to have the same strong will and love of adventure!
Nancy Shaw, Vancouver, WA
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How can one possibly pick??? They are all glorious in their own way - each of them has overcome so much, thanks to you, but if I had to pick, I guess Misty would get my vote. She has responded so positively to her wonderful new environment, even kicking up her heels and being joyful in her solitary state for quarantine. How can you not love her joyful outlook on life and boisterous acceptance of all the new arrivals? She really rocks!
Ricki Hart, Wylie, TX
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Two elephants - Shirley and Jenny, the first residents we saw when we found the elecam. They opened our eyes and our minds to another world.
Michael and Sheila Medlar, Norfolk, England
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I love them all, but I guess I'd have to say Shirley. Loving 'mother' to Jenny, wise matriarch, she is the steady foundation on which the loving sanctuary family has been built.
Nancy, Seattle
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Shirley - that's my name
shirley walter, Ocala, Florida
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I identify with Tarra and her love of dogs. The story of Tarra and Bella would make a wonderful children's book.
Dannee, TN
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Dulary, because of her strong will to live, even after being shut up in a concrete closet at the Philly Zoo for almost two years, and her incredible patience - she is so inspiring to me.
Marianne Bessey, Philadelphia PA
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I love dear Tarra and so identify with her love for dogs. The relationship between Tarra and Bella is so special. Their story would make a wonderful children's book.
Dannee, Tennessee
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Shirley, of course, since I'm a Shirley, too. The story of Jenny and Shirley cemented the feelings I already had for her after seeing her poor torn ear and damaged leg and reading her biography.
Shirley Green, Painesville, Ohio (Go OSU)
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Misty because she has been the glue that has kept them all together after a year of tragedies! She was a loyal companion to Lota, she has invigorated Delhi by her presence, helped ease the pain of Jenny's passing for Shirley, Bunny and the rest of the girls and she has taken Dulary under her wing and "coaxed" her into a strong friendship. To me she is the very heart of the group and if the Divas ever transition over to the founders group I'm sure she will be the liaison between the two families! I adore her!
Kim, California
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I went to The Sanctuary with Tina, being retired I then spent hours watching the cam. I saw Shirley do so very many things, she was so smooth when she intervened if Jenny was getting into difficulty or if help was needed. It's Shirleys actions that will always be with me. She was kind, gentle, and firm.
Fay Morris, Victoria, B.C.
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I love Delhi's spirit!!!
Barbara, Virginia
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I can identify with Liz. She is strong-willed and has a mind of her own, but at the same time is a real sweetheart. She keeps on truckin'.
Lorraine, Pennsylvania
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I have only been watching and reading about the elephants at the Sanctuary for a year or so. But I guess I would have to say it's Billie. Not because she has the most interesting personality, but because during the time that I have been here, her new fenced in area which she shares with Liz and Frieda has given her an even better chance to heal. Her wounds are deep and it's obviously taken a long time for her to feel good again. Now, seeing and hearing stories of her amazing recovery symbolizes the importance of places like the Sanctuary. Besides, it makes me feel good!
Nancy Lewis, Seattle WA
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I love Delhi the most. The fact that she had her feet soaked in formaldyhyde and suffered terrible burns. I will never forget the day she was confiscated. Even though Delhi lives in pain, her emotional well-being must be wonderful. I am so happy this lovely, grand lady can spend her remaining years free, unchained and deeply loved.
Thomas, Vermont
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After Lota's passing, Frieda and Billie became my favorites. I hope that Billie will learn to overcome her past and sometime in 2009 allow the chain on her ankle to be removed.
Candace, California
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It would have to be Lota. She has touched my heart because when I had seen pictures of her she looked so emaciated and not very healthy, but with so much love and care she thrived if even for a little while. I had a family member, human of course, that had some similar problems. Now, they are both roaming free away from pain and disappointment.
Candace Kubczak, Milwaukee, WI
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Shirley the matriarch. If it wasn't for Shirley's story on the Urban Elephant, I would never have found the wonderful Elephant Sanctuary. For that I will always be in her debt.
Christine Kaess, Takoma Park, Maryland
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I identify with Delhi who continues to accept her special needs care with dignity and grace and trust, who willingly embraces in welcoming compassion the new Sanctuary arrivals who need her wisdom. To me, Delhi is a prophet of hope, survival, and believing in believing.
Ann, Germantown, TN
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Sissy. For what Sissy went through being beaten at the zoo and seeing how far she has come, makes me realize you can overcome anything. Just keep moving forward.
Juanita Eisinger, Livonia, Michigan
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Winky.
I think (I certainly don't know ) and maybe it is the ultimate anthropomorphizing, how it feels to feel threatented and do something hurtful because in the moment it feels like survival. And I also know the crushing remorse afterwords.
name withheld, atlanta GA
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Shirley. For losing her Jenny
Barbara Chamberlain, Seatte
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I identify with dear Tarra - the founder, the greeter, the joyful one, the lover of dogs, friend and companion to all.
Carolyn, Brentwood, TN
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