I’ve seen it time and again—the quiet shift that occurs when a new puppy, kitten, or even human baby enters the home. The older animal companions, who once had their own rhythm and deep connection with their people, now find themselves navigating a new dynamic.

It can look like me walking in and sitting in the entryway while the inhabitants choose who is going to connect with me first…

…such as memories, perceptions, beliefs, or understandings from that younger version of me as well as the new ideas that have been flowing in…

With some dogs, it can be all about the face-to-face play. With others it is connection, touch and the sound of your voice. Often, the more involved you get in the play and with them, the more fun and present you are with them….

With other animals it is often out-of-the-box ways of presence. Just choosing to be seated next to where they are, softening your gaze, and giving them/him/her your attention is an act of presence - and most likely something they do not receive regularly. Even …

Animals connect and communicate with one another through being in a present state of mind, so they hear another’s thoughts, see images, and sense what their emotional condition is while also being aware of the scent the other is giving off. They do this with us as well…

When the unusual and other-worldly experience merges with the current reality, there is an understanding that something we are doing is new. That I am calling in something much greater than before as I recognize the seemingly innate skills I have often held beneath the surface.