Rimpoche

Rimpoche reports through Sharon that she really likes her body. She likes the way it feels and moves. She likes how it is to be a cat from the inside out, especially in the warmer weather. She says she feels almost invisible when she is enjoying her body. And, she says, she thinks humans can learn a lot from cats’ ability to be loving and sensuous.

Even though I don’t experience these communications in the same way Sharon does, I trust them. And I trust that connecting with “others” in a more direct way is something humans have always known and been deeply nourished by.

If one needs studies, they abound. People who pet animals on the whole experience less stress. People who spend time in the natural world are renewed. Children with autism are often more relaxed when in the company of calm animals. Some say it was dogs who domesticated humans, who taught humans the benefits of group cooperation.

I think that if I were to have a “talk” with Rimpoche, she would assure me that we are here to serve one another. That we are here to celebrate that there are so many different bodies on this earth and that we all have much to teach and learn with one another.

I see her confidence growing daily. Although she still prefers to keep her distance and rarely spends time indoors, I have a sense she will grow into her name of learned teacher. And I hope I will grow into learned student in the best sense of the notion as our family of cats, humans, plants and trees matures.