We mere mortals spend so much of our lives hanging onto things, harboring resentment and regret, and criticizing ourselves and others. But do our pets carry such burdens? Well, I admit to having a few cats who have let me know after I have been gone for a few days that they are not pleased. But for the most part, my experience with pets is that they forgive quickly and let go.
Why in the world do we two-leggeds hang on to what we perceive as righteous criticism? This has come to mind recently because the pain in my shoulder has brought my attention to resentment that I have been shouldering. Are there lessons to learn from my shoulder pain? And are there lessons to learn from our animals?
Yesterday I spent the day writing down what had been bothering me, things that I felt resentful about and justified in feeling about others in my life. Through forgiveness, I physically alleviated some pain that had been stuck in my neck and shoulder. I didn't get rid of all of the pain, but I had an opportunity to observe and feel a difference.
And yes, I have lessons to learn from my animals as well. My heart melts at their ability to let go of any annoyance, regret or anger. Their brains don't hold onto it, I believe, because they live in the moment. How wise they are not to hold resentment in their bodies! Their patience and acceptance in life is admirable and in turn, serves them well. They don't look at life through filters as we do, filters which are typically clogged up with familial behaviors and patterns that skew our perception of people and circumstances. Our animals don't waste time looking through rear-view mirrors, questioning choices about themselves and others. And when we humans slip into this mode, does it serve us?
Life is too short not to forgive. Forgiveness is truly the way to joy and healing. Our pets are living examples of the joy of living with a forgiving heart. Watch them, be with them, play with them, and try not to smile.
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