Spending time in nature with Moxie meant connection, peace, joy, gratitude, and love, so much love.
I learned to listen, truly listen to what’s around me. With this came something very unexpected though: learning to listen to what’s inside me. Learning to allow myself to experience and process my feelings, emotions, learning to be gentler with myself and others.
Learning to rest and connect with Mother Nature in a way I did not think was possible. On that day, laying down by the lake, surrounded by majestic mountains, I had a glimpse of what it meant to “hold space”. I heard many people talk about this, but until that moment, I was never able to grasp the true meaning of it. On that day, in that moment, laying down on the grass and letting go of all worries, I felt as if Moxie was “holding space” for me. I sensed this “bubble” of goodness around us. I “felt” Moxie was oozing peace and love, I felt accepted, protected, loved by her and by Mother Nature itself.
A flood of thoughts, questions and emotions surfaced suddenly. Maybe that was the meaning of “unconditional love” dogs give. If only we, humans, could replicate this with other humans and with ourselves. The act of giving and receiving with all out heart. Connection without having agenda, connection that simply “happens”, the ability to be present for one another without judgement, expectations, or assumptions.
Can I extend what Moxie taught me in that moment to myself and others? Can I take that “bubble” and always carry it with me in my heart? Will I be able to remember this moment, this feeling long after physically leaving this place? My heart said yes, yes you will. And she was right. The bubble of “holding space”, the way I understood it that day, came home with me. Occasionally, it comes back up for me and others, like a beautiful flower that blooms repeatedly, more beautiful, more colourful, and more fragrant each time. I am grateful for that very special moment with Moxie by the lake. A precious moment that mattered.