The Animals We Love

Have you ever thought about those furry (or feathered) animals you love so much, and wondered what it is that attracts your heart to them specifically, and why?

I have been a penguin-lover most of my life, at least since I was 7yrs old. And in the nearly 40 yrs since, I have had oodles of people ask "why penguins?" Today, I was asked that familiar question again; BUT today, I was welcomed with a new unexpected response and revelation to this undeniable pull I have to these glorious birds!

During my first session with a new psychologist today, along with the usual rapport building discussions, and sharing my intentions and goals for our time together, the topic of penguins came up when she noticed my penguin earrings. "I just adore penguins!" was my reply, and with that unwavering spark of joy and glow that usually accompanies answering this question for me. The penguin topic ceased at this point, but resurfaced again when I was putting on my coat to leave; "why penguins?", she asked. Along with the usual reply I share when people ask this ( "I love them because their energy resonates so much me, and always has - the joyful, playful, loud, clumsy/messy, water-loving sides of me."), I surprisingly found myself sharing a few new revelations for why I loved these amazing birds so much - "I love that they are committed lovers (related to their monogamous nature), and that they show us how connections with our tribe can be nourishing, and how during some of the darkest, harshest seasons in our lives, these connections can be downright essential for our survival.

As I made my trip back home from this session, on what was a late March day that was unexpectedly snowy and very Antarctic penguin-like in nature, I thought more about the animals we love and what this can say about us. I do not think it is a fluke that certain animals pull at our hearts and souls the way they do. And I do not think it's a coincidence that this new awareness of my love for these playful, exquisite birds surfaced now at a time where I have been opening up to allow myself to receive love through paths and people that are pushing my comfort zone. I think our souls are naturally attracted to the energy of the living creatures (animals or humans) that deeply resonate with our true nature and true beauty. And after today, I also see that it's not only the energy and nature of penguins that my soul loves so much, but it's their characteristics and nature also align with my deepest values in life - living a life of intimate, tribal connection of shared vulnerability, integrity, authenticity, deep love, play, and joy! And of course beach play and swimming too! I see penguins as living a life of joy, play, adventuring, and who are not afraid to loudly live and celebrate life, while sometimes making a mess doing it! I see penguins as creatures who thrive in life by being committed, loyal lovers of their partners and friends, and who are not afraid to courageously vocalize when things are not going so well and when they could use some extra help or love. Penguins represent so much of what I deeply value, and the way I strive to show up in life for myself and others whom I love.

So, the next time you think about those feathered or furry creatures you love so much, I invite you to ground into your heart and soul, and see how deep that love goes and why. The truth you uncover may be something more profound and joyfully nourishing than you ever realized before.

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What is your favourite animal, and why do you think your heart and souls loves

them so much?! Feel free to leave me a comment below - I would love to hear :)