The Simple Beauty of Animals
Original Publication 28/08/20
Photo courtesy of CanterCreative
The call of the pen and the page or the call of the wild? More specifically, the call of wild animals. It's a conundrum that has rattled around in my mind since the age that one begins to ponder just what it is they want to do with their life, what roads they wish to take, and what choices they will invariably make along them.
The pen has come to find my grip, and like many other writers, I'm at a point in my creative journey where I'm confident enough in my own voice that I know it's my calling. There's a niggling, though. An itch in the back of my mind. It's the simple elation I feel in the presence of animals, and the excited, almost romanticised way I envision a life working amongst them.
To truly define why many of us love and find comfort in animals is a probable concept. There are many variables at work and many profound experiences and personal influences to consider. But one such answer might be that they represent a welcome change from the less desirable characteristics of our own species.
Personally, what I perceive from these creatures is a way of living entirely within your own nature. I'm envious of it, in fact. Often in life, we are designed to be distracted by the modern constructs of our society, and we forget to find solace in that which makes us human. Like our desire for adventure, our social qualities, our ability to love, everything. Right down to the essentials like eating, drinking, and sleeping.
Animals only display behaviour that is defined by their species. Their needs are simple, and while we perceive these creatures to harbour a lesser intelligence, we still find ourselves completely in awe of them. They remind us of what it is to be completely free and unencumbered by those characteristics that often hold us back.
Our own species has evolved at a lightning rate, and the onus is always on moving forward and "improving" what we already have. We are quick to point out the qualities that differentiate us from wild animals and what we have achieved in our time on this planet is, really, nothing short of miraculous. But, what if we stopped for just a moment and took note and influence from the other creatures that inhabit our planet? The benefits, if we choose to acknowledge them, are endless. Conflict will always exist, that's portrayed in the nature of animals as well as humans, but we could certainly learn to live more harmoniously with one another. We could develop a greater respect for our planet and, in turn, find ways to become more present in our lives. Essentially, we could find a way back to what makes us truly human.
For now, contentment and a smile find me as I sit and depict my musings on these wonderful creatures. They will always hold a special place in my heart, and while I truly believe the pen and the page to be my calling, I will always find time for animals. Whether wild or domesticated, their presence is invaluable, while a world without them is unfathomable.
