January 27, 2010
When we say, "I don't know" we open ourselves to discover what lies beyond our current levels of understanding. There is wisdom in not knowing.
'Not Knowing' gives us the freedom and opportunity to learn. People who can admit to 'not knowing' tend to be more confident, at least intellectually and emotionally, than those who pretend to know it all. Life-long learners are comfortable in their own skins and don't feel the need to bluff their way through life. Instead, they ask questions, seek answers, and listen more than they speak.
It's one of the great paradoxes of life that pretending to know everything can make you appear foolish, while admitting you don't know can make you seem wise!
January 20, 2010
As you spend time with your animal patients or your own companion animals today, take a moment to ponder the words of this writer and realize how much wisdom we can pick up from them.
"Wisdom is in the clarity of the present moment. When our attention is focused in the here and now, we respond fully and authentically to what is actually happening." --Jan Waterman
To me, this quote describes every animal I've ever known. They are completely and wholly in the present moment.
I've often wondered why I feel happier when I'm around an animal and I've come to believe it's because animals plug me in to the 'here and now', allowing me to put everything inside my head to the side for the moment and simply connect with them and with myself. I get a break from my own overworked brain when an animal comes on the scene. Whether it's my own dog under my desk at home or the squirrel who comes 'calling for corn' outside our office window, animals represent a bright spot in my day.
January 13, 2010
“I love cats because I enjoy my home; little by little, they become its visible soul.” --Jean Cocteau
I’m sure most people feel the same about their dogs. I know I do.
My cats and my dogs provide my home with structure and daily routines. For me, it’s the ‘same-ness’ and ritual of caring for my pets that brings me comfort.
I begin each morning with the joyful bounds of my dogs as they scurry outside to greet the day. After work, my cats scold me for making them wait so long for their dinner; but, then, purr and wind themselves through my legs with thanks for their delicious meal. Bedtime brings those longed-for dog treats and warm snuggles with my cat as he curls himself into the space between my body and my arm.
Every day. Always the same. My pets are the soul of my home and my daily life.
January 6, 2010
“The highest reward for man’s toil is not what he gets for it, but what he becomes by it.” –John Ruskin
Over the years, many veterinarians, animal health technicians, practice managers, pet crematory owners, etc., have told me they consider their work with animals as a “mission” and not just a job. I feel that way, too, about helping people cope when their beloved pets die.
If you chose a career that involves service to animals (as well as to the people who love them!), you probably don’t see your work as “drudgery” or “labor.” Like me, you most likely feel privileged to be in a position to help animals and their tender-hearted families.
As we begin a new year, I’m aware of how thankful I feel to be part of the “animal world”. One of my intentions for 2010 is to always remember I don’t have just a “job”, but a “calling” to be of service. I’m grateful to be spending 2010 with all of you who feel this way, too!
Happy New Year!
