I’m on sensory overload. 
I spent a week out in the country, up to my elbows in dogs, cats & their people–a Great Dane who felt Chihuahua-sized, a mutt who felt responsible for the world, a Shepherd who loves dogs but hates people, another who can’t bear to be even a few feet from his person. A few of us were animal communicators, others volunteered at shelters & rescue, one woman won awards for dancing with her dog, a very few of us make our living working with dogs. We were doctors & lawyers, project managers & film makers, we were mostly childless, and almost exclusively female.
We had group meditations, sharing circles, gift exchanges & a group dinner. There were tears, laughter, too many Wawa sandwiches and a lot of bad coffee. By the time we left everyone had changed a little. The Dane had earned to exhale; he came out of his corner and went to sleep in the center of the circle. The mixed breed also learned to exhale, for him that meant leaving the center of the circle, settling into his crate and giving up some of the responsibility of the world. By the time we left everyone had changed and I’d cried in public. Twice.
There’s a cemetery close to the workshop where I can go to exhale. I take picture after picture, plastic flowers and figurines evidence other people’s open hearts.
I don’t come to an open heart easily. I scoff quickly at activities designed to open my heart. Therapy. Group meditations. Creative visualization. Hugs.
I cried twice. That’s progress baby, that’s progress.
Meeting you was one of the highlights of the seminar. You have a wicked sense of humor, awesome personality, and a great way how you put your words together. What can I say – You Rock!
Jodi, I agree that you have a wicked sense of humor but must point out that the line is a fair steal from my friend, Matthew Arnesberber. I told Lisa about me being described that way. Not that I mind but I think Matthew deserves some credit. What tiny bit I’ve read here-it’s very early–has me liking you even more. Please consider a training here in Chapel Hill where the facility is fabulous and there’s a shelter full of dogs & cats next door. No cemetery though but some nice trails, I hear. This area also has a pretty rich music history and scene-depending on the type of music you enjoy. Check out my facebook stuff and I hope you bookmarked the flickr page of mine. And THANK YOU so much for allowing me to look at pics of my clan. I was missing them very much and seeing them, even though briefly, helped me make it through all the sharing.
Juel
Jodi
You facinate me and make me smile. Thank you for sharing on your blog. Your writing causes me to stop, think, and look at the world through different eyes.
Linda