Our furry friends,
Or as some of us call them,
Furry kids or children,
Can be great companions.
They can guide us when we feel stuck in negativity,
Anger,
Or hate.
Our pets can be amazing teachers of unconditional love.
Today we are going to take a few moments to show our gratitude for them.
This isn't a formal meditation,
But more of an experience that can be done in the company of a pet.
The animal doesn't have to be your own,
But it should be familiar enough to be near you,
Or better yet,
Sitting on your lap,
One that can be close to you,
That perhaps allows you to pet it if you need comfort.
If not your own,
Perhaps a family member's or friend's.
Now as you are sitting with the animal,
Observe the feeling you get from this animal wanting to be in your presence.
Notice what it feels like to be accepted exactly as you are.
This animal isn't asking you to change anything about yourself.
It doesn't matter what you look like,
How successful you are,
Or what mistakes you've supposedly made in your life.
To this animal,
You are 100% okay,
Exactly as you are in this moment.
If the animal is touching you,
Imagine their contentedness or affection for you seeping into your body.
If you can,
Pet the animal and feel its fur or body.
Notice its reactions,
Picture its love pooling directly in your heart.
Be still with the energy of this pure animal,
Who is simply existing here,
Right now.
They have no worries,
No preoccupations,
No conditions.
As you stroke this furry friend,
Experience the exchange of affection that asks for nothing in return.
Watch their body accept the pleasure of an animal pet,
Scratched or held.
If they are asleep,
Watch their peacefulness,
The trust it has for you.
Take a moment to give gratitude for this animal,
Knowing this can feel it in their heart.
Take note of what you're experiencing in your own body as you consciously participate this exchange.
The more you practice this,
The easier it will be to access this exchange in difficult times,
When we all need a bit of loving kindness,
Or at least some warmth and friendliness,
To shift our negative feelings when needed.
As you go forward into the world,
Give the same love to others,
No matter what negativity,
Anger,
Or hate you might have previously experienced.
Know you have the ability to change the world,
Like this beautiful animal.
Accept others exactly as they are,
With love and an open heart.
Take care,
My friend.
I wish you peace and love.
