Animals

My Husband and his family had a dog when we were dating , got married and began a family.

I was fine with him when we were dating and first married. However, once Elizabeth came, MANY things changed. Including my acceptance of and willingness to interact with him. And I was criticized for it.

And I can't tell you my exact issue.  I know it was germ/cootie based.  But as I've become aware of and comfortable with who I am, I believe, for me, it was a natural direction change.  As were many of  the things that changed once E was born.

That's how I've always worked. I just change course naturally when I feel the need.  I don't always make a real effort, because to me it feels natural. But I do always know when it happens.

It's a HUGE blessing for me.  It's how God guides me.  And it's how I follow.

SO, I averted away from the dog. I loved him still.  I think he knew that.  But I kept E away from him.  My in laws don't have the same cleanliness standards as I do.  And it echoed in their dogs grooming.... and the environment he existed in.

That's fine. To each his own.

And I had it shoved in my face.

Which just inspired further distancing.

And now, after time and adjusting, we have cats.  And I get to control their grooming based on my comfort level. And I'm okay with them.  And if anyone else is uncomfortable with the cleanliness level, they are welcome to not visit. But I will NEVER condemn them for their choice.  It is their's to make.

That is the background.  Now the application:

We have 5 chickens and 2 cats.  And I love them.  And I respect them.

And as I was taking care of the chickens, in a foot of snow today, I realized just how good they are for me and my family.

I do not know of cases where a person who works with, takes care of and truly RESPECTS animals, goes truly bad.

It's that building of a relationship.  The selflessness of taking care of them.... especially when it's inconvenient.  I think it especially comes from livestock and farm situations.

Having our chickens specifically has helped with my OCD IMMENSELY.

And I KNOW studies have shown over and over that animals help.  But having my earlier aversion SHOVED in my face wasn't helpful.  I had to work through my PTSD issues from years of mental abuse and come to that realization on my own before I could come to understand it's importance in my life.

And fortunately, my loving Father in Heaven gently guided us to a home with chickens and the ability to have land and animals.

I am SO grateful He gave me what I needed, and NOT what I THOUGHT I wanted