Writings by Jackie

As Taught by the Animals

Moods and Emotions

Animals make me aware of some moods and emotions that humans experience: suicidal thoughts, pity, the futility of worry--that animals don’t have. 

Animals have the ability to change my mood when I’m sad, because when they are with me, I feel the support they give. They are a constant reminder that fears and negativity can be overcome, or at least, let go. By their example, I am reminded that past traumas can be put behind. They are able to accept less than perfect circumstances through endurance and perseverance. Animals do not dwell on the past, but live in appreciation of the moment, appreciation of the day. By watching their purity, I am reminded of the elements of my behaviors and attitudes that still need refinement. I can be motivated to go to work when I really don’t feel like it, in order to provide for my animals. I continue to be amazed at the emotional sharing that goes on between my animals and me; when they feel good, I feel good; when they are happy, I’m happy. I feel such positive energy when I’m doing something for my animals, as opposed to doing something for myself.

Empowerment 

Power is a strength-evoking word. With respect to my animals, I see the power of my maternal instinct as protector and caregiver. When I massage or pet my animals, I experience the power of healing that I hold in my hands through touch for both the animals and me. I have experienced the power of small gestures, a lick of the hand, the warmth of a beloved pet lying next to me, stroking their fur, looking into deep, loving eyes, companionship. Through my relationship with animals, I’ve come to know the power of positive energy. I wouldn’t want to live in a house without my animals, knowing the energy that they bring to the environment, and the emptiness that exists without them. To my way of thinking, all of this is a tribute to the power of the human-animal bond.

Living Life

Animals teach us about life, more than we would know without their example. They show us the importance of establishing a balance between activity and rest in order to properly care for oneself. Routine, schedules, consistency and clarity are good things because they provide a sense of security and stability. They give you something you can count on, in a world that can be very fragile. My close relationship with the animals in my life helps me to keep my priorities straight. I see that animals appreciate their small achievements, like watching an older dog fetch a ball rolled along the floor rather than having it thrown. 

I’m reminded that learning really can be life-long, in an environment that offers mental stimulation and challenge. Animals take pleasure in the simple things – food, water, a comfortable bed, a favorite activity, lying in the sun. They teach of the simplification of life, and the importance of basics. 

I watch their highly developed skills of observation and I aspire to achieve their greater awareness and sensitivity. My animals teach me, by example, that choices are driven by who we are: our strengths, skills, and needs. Animals bring me to a better, more genuine understanding of life and death, and the transition between the two. Life is to be accepted as a continuum of stages, inevitably moving towards death.

Virtues

Animals help us grow beyond physical, emotional and behavioral issues. They role model patience; animals sometimes wait for long periods of time for abuses to end, to find a home. They demonstrate forgiveness; my animals forgive me for my shortcomings every day. Animals are consistent; they have no sides to them, they are who they are. Through my animals I learn about trust; animals have taught me that trust is a precious gift someone has given to you. In order to respect trust, I have to try to be a person worthy of it. Sacrifice can feel good and be fulfilling; there are times when I am called upon to make sacrifices for my animals. Animals have taught me the true meaning of loyalty and devotion, as well as to hold these qualities in high regard. Spiritually, my animals make me feel nearer to God.

Relationships

Animals give us unconditional love; giving to others without expecting anything in return. They teach me that responsibility is not life limiting; it can free a part of you that seeks expression. The French author Antoine de St. Exupery wrote, “We are responsible for what we tame.”

I learn the meaning of family when I sense the warmth that the animals bring to the house, as opposed to the coldness I feel when they are not in the house. 

I’m reminded of the many ways of communicating that do not involve speaking. Words are not always the only way, or the best way, to communicate. I appreciate every day for the opportunity to spend it with those I love, never taking time shared for granted. I come to understand what is involved in building a relationship; the day by day experiences of eating together, sleeping together, playing together, resting together. What makes a quality relationship is the time and attention spent each day, every day. Again, in the words of St. Exupery,”It is the time spent with your rose that makes it your rose.” I don’t question the importance of close relationships in one’s life, I live that experience each day.

Caring

When humans and animals care for each other, it makes for a special balance in nature. Animals are children who never grow up. They teach me to care for something today, while helping to create their tomorrow.