Two Dogs and a Parrot

1. Animals teach us to embrace change and find joy in new experiences

Lady was born on July 10, the anniversary of my final profession and First Vespers of St. Benedict's day. What's more, we got her within weeks of the elevation of Hildegard of Bingen, a Benedictine nun, to the status of Doctor of the Church. She was clearly meant to be a Benedictine bird. My Benedictine bird.

Embracing change. Animals, particularly pets, can teach us valuable lessons about adapting to new situations and finding joy in unexpected places. They demonstrate resilience and curiosity when faced with unfamiliar environments or experiences.

Finding joy in the little things. Pets often show enthusiasm for simple pleasures, reminding us to appreciate the small moments in life. Their ability to find excitement in everyday activities can inspire us to approach our own lives with renewed wonder and positivity.

Examples of animals embracing change:

• A dog exploring a new neighborhood with enthusiasm
• A cat adapting to a new home by finding favorite spots
• A bird learning to interact with new toys or people

2. Pets help us develop empathy, understanding, and emotional intelligence

Danny did not see the tears and pass them by. Danny felt those tears and stayed in them himself till they stopped.

Developing emotional awareness. Interacting with pets can heighten our sensitivity to non-verbal cues and emotions, improving our ability to empathize with others.

Learning patience and understanding. Caring for animals requires us to be patient and understanding, especially when dealing with their unique needs or behaviors. This practice can translate into improved relationships with humans as well.

Ways pets enhance emotional intelligence:

• Recognizing and responding to an animal's body language
• Providing comfort to a pet during stressful situations
• Adapting communication styles to suit different animals' personalities

3. The importance of play and adventure in maintaining a balanced life

To allow fear to control us means that we will never be able to do anything beyond the mundane, the familiar, the regular, the safe. It undermines self-confidence and allows us to believe our own worst nightmares.

Embracing playfulness. Animals, especially young ones, remind us of the importance of play in our lives. Their carefree attitude and joy in simple activities can inspire us to incorporate more fun and spontaneity into our routines.

Seeking adventure. Pets often demonstrate curiosity and a willingness to explore their surroundings. This can encourage us to step out of our comfort zones and seek new experiences, leading to personal growth and a more fulfilling life.

Benefits of incorporating play and adventure:

• Reduced stress and improved mental health
• Enhanced creativity and problem-solving skills
• Stronger social connections and improved relationships

4. Unconditional love and acceptance from animals can heal emotional wounds

There is something soporific about living in a culture of things. Our minds dull at the thought of them. In an attempt to "keep up," or "stay in the loop," or be part of the "race to the top," we find ourselves buried in a living coffin of things.

Healing power of acceptance. Animals offer unconditional love and acceptance, which can be particularly healing for those who have experienced rejection or emotional trauma.

Creating a safe space. The non-judgmental nature of pets allows people to be vulnerable and express emotions freely, promoting emotional healing and personal growth.

Examples of animal-assisted healing:

• Therapy dogs in hospitals or nursing homes
• Equine therapy for individuals with PTSD or anxiety
• Emotional support animals for people with depression or loneliness

5. Observing animals can teach us to live in the present moment

Lady is contented. The operational word is "go." There are no ruts in Lady's life, no places so dull that she can't amuse herself in them, no moments not worth living.

Mindfulness through observation. Watching animals interact with their environment can teach us to be more present and aware of our surroundings.

Appreciating simple pleasures. Animals often find joy in basic activities, reminding us to appreciate the small moments in our own lives.

Lessons in mindfulness from animals:

• A cat's focused attention while stalking a toy
• A dog's enthusiasm for a daily walk
• A bird's contentment while basking in sunlight

6. Pets demonstrate the value of persistence and overcoming limitations

Whatever it is, wherever we go, Lady is contented. The operational word is "go." There are no ruts in Lady's life, no places so dull that she can't amuse herself in them, no moments not worth living.

Overcoming obstacles. Animals often demonstrate remarkable persistence in overcoming physical limitations or challenging situations, inspiring us to persevere in our own lives.

Adapting to change. Pets show resilience when faced with new environments or circumstances, teaching us the importance of flexibility and adaptability.

Examples of animal persistence:

• A three-legged dog learning to run and play
• A rescued animal overcoming past trauma
• A bird figuring out how to open a complex feeder

7. Animal companions reveal the essence of what it means to be truly alive

There is in Lady a voracious appetite for becoming: nothing in life is good enough for her just because it's there and handy and possible. It's what she might do that she has never done before, that gives her that extra dash of life to challenge your own.

Embracing life fully. Animals often approach life with enthusiasm and curiosity, reminding us to engage fully with our experiences and surroundings.

Finding purpose in small moments. Pets demonstrate the importance of finding joy and meaning in everyday activities, encouraging us to appreciate the simple pleasures of life.

Lessons in living fully from animals:

• A dog's excitement for each new day
• A cat's contentment in finding a warm sunbeam
• A bird's curiosity in exploring its environment

Last updated: November 20, 2024