I learn so much from my dogs and trees, everyday on how to live fully, be more present, and love. Meet Kismat, he joined me two days ago as he followed me home, a 3km run, where he fought off dogs and traffic without any care. All I had done was say hello to him and that was enough. It makes me think of how much we yearn for connection, love and safety. As humans, if we keep these core needs suppressed they get expressed subconsciously. They get expressed however and whenever they get a chance. If we can bring consciousness to these core needs in us, they can be seen and held. It may bring up grief and pain, that we long for it, and that is hard. But when we acknowledge our needs and don’t shame ourselves for our needs, that is strength. We can then have choice in when, where, to whom, and how we express them. Kismat’s 3km run, late at night, was very scary, but this risk worked out. He’s safe and happy and already integrated into the family.