Did You Know I have a Superpower?
Most mornings, I greet the day filled with hope. I forget we are living through an unprecedented pandemic, or that fires are ravaging the West Coast of the U.S, or that political division is rearing its head more than I could ever imagine.
For those few delicious minutes the world feels like a marvelous place, brimming with opportunity, and full of wonder. My superpower is not super human strength like Wonder Woman or the ability to summon thunder like Thor. My superpower lays beside me in bed, trots next to me when I hike, and makes sure I exercise my belly through laughter. My superpower is named, Grace and she is a rescue dog who we adopted several months ago. We may have given Grace a second chance at life but she has returned the favor one hundred-fold.
Although I wrote ”Dog as My Doctor, Cat as My Nurse,” – a book on how our dogs and cats help us live healthier, happier, and more extraordinary lives, Grace could easily author her own book , “How to Find Calm in the Chaos,” a much-needed lesson to help us decrease stress and relieve anxiety during trying times.
5 Paws-itive Ways Pets Help Us Find the Calm in Chaos
If Grace could speak, this is what I think she would suggest you do with C-H-A-O-S.
C – Choose to CHILL
We animals aren’t worried about tomorrow or stressing about yesterday. We live in the moment and think you would be a lot happier and healthier if you lived there too. So, the next time you feel stressed follow our lead and take us for a walk. Or sit on the couch and give us a massage – something that will not only help us both chill out but will also lower your blood pressure and elevate your mood.
H – Have HEART
If you’re feeling internally chaotic, you may be thinking too much. Instead of spending so much time playing ping pong with your thoughts, why not visit a place we prefer to hang out – the heart. I love you, I’m sorry, thank you – saying these words to yourself and to those you love often will connect you to your heart – and to ours too.
A – Be AUTHENTIC
Just who are you? If you’re feeling chaotic more than calm it’s a good reminder to ask yourself, “ Am I doing what I am meant to be doing? Am I on track with my life’s purpose?” A chihuahua never tries to be a poodle and a tomcat doesn’t strive to be a lion. We animals are who we are and we suggest you do the same rather than trying to fit into a mold that was not created for you. See yourself as we see you – brilliant, amazing, and capable of changing the world for the better.
O – Embrace OPTIMISM
Just because everyone else is down in the mouth, doesn’t mean you have to join them. When you forget to take us out for a walk, or ignore us, we may be put out for a few minutes, but we know how to shake things off. Pawsitivity is our version of optimism. Try it. All you have to lose is the frown.
S – Savor SYNERGY
We are not just your pets, we are your co-pilots on land, your daily wellness buddies, and your teammates in life. We can help you navigate life’s rising waters when you finally accept us as lifestyle guides. We may not know everything there is to know, but we know enough, and can teach you a thing or two about forgiveness, unconditional love, and today – How to Find Calm in the Chaos.
Stay Healthy & Stay Pawsitive!
Grace & Carlyn MDO 💜
PS: My “Paws for the Good Stuff” Journals for dog and cat lovers launch October 24, 2020! If you want a sneak peak – click here! Otherwise, more on that next week!
We have to hand our paws to you both. This is beautiful and inspiring to us and our human parents!
Mia, Matisse, Pepper, and Morandi Butler
Thanks gang! We appreciate your happy paws and are glad you liked our blog.
Liked this very much. It’s so true.
I’m so glad you liked it, Tim! Looks like you have the same superpower:)
Some chaotic events yesterday, led to chaotic thoughts, I let myself feel depressed and sorry for myself! It was time to feed my cats and evade the new puppy who has somehow come to believe that cat food is so much better, between laughing at her and the reaction of both cats (one with disdain and one with worry), I realized that living in the now instead of worrying about what might happen! Your blog is confirmation that my animals are indeed good teachers! Thank you.
Eva, I think a lot of people were feeling like you yesterday, very chaotic! I’m delighted that your dog doctors and cat nurses came to the rescue with levity and love, both of which do wonders for our mental and physical health. And kudos to you for focusing on The Now – the only place that truly exists.