Feb. 2026 Musing on LOVE
Unconditional Love…
Animals offer us companionship with an open heart. Even when we act with bad behavior, animal friends offer unconditional forgiveness without holding a grudge. They model unconditional love by not holding a grudge, modeling how to be comfortable with discomfort and consistently sharing honest presence. Unlike human friends, animals are much less likely to let expectations, pride or unfinished business get in the way of connection.
The capacity that animals have for radical forgiveness is humbling for me. Rescue animals pulled from neglectful or abusive environments still approach new humans with curiosity and openness. Horses that have been mishandled can, with patience, learn to trust again. This type of honesty is a natural intelligence. Animals prefer connection over conflict. We could take a lesson from this wisdom. How much energy is wasted by humans holding on to old pains that cause suffering?
Our animal friends also have powerful ability to love through difficulty. They stay beside sick or grieving owners, not because it is comfortable, but because love calls for it. Service animals endure long hours, unfamiliar environments, and physical demands for a partnership that transcends ease. Animal friends don't withhold love only to share when conditions are perfect. They love especially when things aren't perfect. Wild, animals comfort injured companions, groom the vulnerable, and protect the weak. Love is not contingent on convenience. It doesn't retreat when things get hard. It leans in.
Of all the lessons animals offer, I’m particularly grateful for their presence. Our animal friends walk with us in the moment. They aren’t consumed by old hurts or worried about future uncertainty. When the cat curls up in your lap, he is entirely there, wholly available and trusting your companionship. When the dog greets you at the door, her joy is total and unfiltered, unclouded by whatever stress the day may have carried. Animals understand the only moment that truly exists is now.
In a world that often overcomplicates love, our animal friends remind us to keep it simple. They forgive without strings attached, lean in when we struggle, and share their full presence. Unconditional love includes all of it.
Power Animal: DEER
Certain spirit animals are recognized as primary carriers of pure, unconditional love. These animals are believed to transmit its frequency as living medicine for the human soul. The gentle presence of Deer resonates with the vibrations of the heart chakra, symbolizing an awakening of unconditional love, compassion, and vulnerability.
In one story, a young fawn approaches a fierce demon with pure, unyielding love so profound that the demon’s heart begins to soften in response to such gentle, unconditional love. This transformation opens a path to the Sacred Mountain for all beings. It is proof that love, not force, is the most transformative power in existence.