Holy Cow!!

As some of you may know, cows are considered "sacred" or "holy" here in India, Chennai especially. And in result of that, they are free to roam where they please. I have found this VERY interesting while here because its so common for people to see cows (& goats & dogs) just chill, anywhere... Its strange. Today, I saw a guy actually petting a cow! Like, OMIGOSH ARE YOU CRAZY!?!?! So I would like to give you some background information, these cows (in the hindu religion) are considered holy because they are the wise that have been reincarnated or brought back to life. They were in the city but were recently relocated to the outskirts because of how busy the city was and the fact that they might get hit. If you hit a cow, on accident or on purpose its illegal and you will get fined! I have often wondered what they do with the cows when they die, so I asked and our helper, or tour guide, Gideon, has informed me that they either bury them, or (if they are healthy) would bring them to the slaughter house!! Its crazy! So then I asked, "Well, who finds them? And who takes them to these places?" He said the government. I still find it unbelievable that cows are common... They are everywhere. & When I say everywhere, I mean it. EVERYWHERE. They walk around and do as they please, eat what they want, and some people even pet them. I don't think I'll ever get too close to a cow.. Holy or not.