We can learn appreciation from our pets

“Until one has loved an animal a part of one’s soul remains unawakened.” – Anatole France

My cat, Ducky, has a knack for sitting in my lap at just the right moments.  Those times when I am tempted by worry, and he appears out of nowhere to calm me down.  There is something about his simple, loving heart that reminds me what really matters.  Like all good pets, he does not hang on to things that happened yesterday, or even five minutes ago.  He is constantly looking forward to the next meal, the next trip outside, or the next cuddle session.  We can all learn a few things from our pets about how to be happy.

This week I was heading into a challenging lunch group when I paused to think about what I would do differently to improve my experience.  The first thing that came to me was to find a way to be genuinely happy to see the students.  Their untamed energy and propensity for loud banter had been driving me nutty and I wondered how I would shift from fear to joyous anticipation.  Then I remembered Ducky.  He always appreciates me and the love that I show him.  He does not even need a reason.

With this in mind, I welcomed the group with my whole heart.  When the students got loud, I lovingly redirected them.  When they all talked at once, I let them know that I did not appreciate that everyone was talking over each other.  I noted that no one truly enjoys being in a room where everyone is talking at once.  Amazingly enough, they responded by quieting down and we had a productive session.  It was fun and we got through all of the days activities.

I believe that it was the appreciation that I brought to the group that made it a better experience for all of us.  It allowed me to greet them with a smile.  It allowed me to firmly redirect them when they steered off course.  Rather than putting on the proverbial “kid gloves”, I felt empowered and so did my students.  I met them at their level and encouraged them to bring out their best.  When they saw that I was undeterred by their outbursts they fell in line with my clear guidance and we all had fun in the process.

I have been told that no one is too dumb to apply the principles that guide a successful life, yet many are too smart.  While I can be witty with my students, wit alone cannot touch their hearts and call forth the best they have to offer.  It takes an authentically loving and appreciative voice to shine light on the good and give direction in the darkness.  I can remember all of the teachers in my own life who saw the good in me and called forth my excellence.  I looked forward to being in their presence, and I enjoyed learning from them.

Is there an area of your life that could benefit from some renewed appreciation?  Take a cue from our furry friends and let go of any resentment you have been holding onto.  Look for reasons to appreciate the people and circumstances in your life.  If that does not work, then simply appreciate all of these things because it feels good to do so.  You will find that your relationships and circumstances transform in the most delightful and unexpected ways. You are worth it.

 

Edward Biagiotti is the Inclusion Specialist for Culver City Unified School District.  He is also co-host of the popular radio show, Funniest Thing! with Darrell and Ed, to find out more go to www.DarrellandEd.com. Visit www.TappingIntoGenius.com for more articles and a free, inspirational parenting download.