Like the Animals

I don’t want to be like the animals.

People often note the isolated behavior of domestic or wild animals and make that “if only we were more like…” meme.

How about no? How about before being like the golden retriever and tabby cat that cuddled each other (so cute!), we invest more effort into being a reasoned human? Cats and dogs also lick their anuses, eat disgusting things (including poop and kibbles), kill really cute birds and other small creatures with their bare teeth. I’d rather not. I’d rather focus on my innate ability to be mindful and self aware. Let’s tap into that, why don’t we?

I don’t want to be like the duck that adopted orphaned ducklings. I want to be like the woman who saw a solution and brought the ducklings to the pond for that possible adoption. Instead of the cuddly cat and dog, I’d like to channel those toddlers who run to embrace each other, best buddies who don’t allow differences in skin color, gender, abilities and challenges, or circumstance to get in the way of seeing and loving each other.

I know people who openly declare their hate for people because dogs or cats are better than humans. But just as pit bulls are not inherently murderous K-nines, atrocious humans are not necessarily inherently so. Circumstance (training) and distance from their potential make animals and humans vicious or atrocious. Not nature.

Channel Our Own Best

The animal moments are precious. Don’t get me wrong. I love those photos and some of the memes. Just not so much the sentiments. If we need models for behavior, let’s look to the best moments of the children (I know some of you are saying, “but the tantrums and they poop their pants.” Take a seat. You also know what I’m getting at.). Let’s look to the behavior and character the helpers who are already tapped into the quiet, solid integrity they carry within.

I’m not looking to channel my inner duck, cat, or dog. I want to channel my inner wisdom, that reasoned being that I’ve always carried and who has waited patiently for me to tune in. We all have this gift. Let’s use it, even when no one is looking.

©Pennie Nichols. All Rights Reserved. 2024.