Love Without Words

What animals teach us about presence, trust, and coming home

Over the last month, I’ve been pet sitting for a few furry friends—Tiger Lily, Lola, most recently, Jackie Brown, and Max. Each one has their own quirks and rhythms.

Being around a four-legged companion - in their quiet, grounded presence - something profound began to unfold…for both two-legged and four-legged.

There’s something that happens when you’re greeted with wagging joy…
When a dog or cat curls up beside you without needing anything in return…
It softens the heart. Calms the nervous system.
It’s the gift of being fully accepted. Loved without agenda.

This Memorial Day, I spent time with my cousin Debra — feeding the baby calf, moving horse and welcoming the arrival of their newest family member, Elle Mae.

Elle Mae, a Bernese Mountain Dog, had been found in a cow field north of Fort Worth. Her fur was matted with burrs, and filled with blood-swollen ticks. Lone Star Berner Rescue took her, gave her several baths, updated her shots, and helped her begin to heal.

I watched as this beautiful, gentle soul stepped cautiously into her new life. Her tail wagged. She panted with nervous excitement. She explored, building trust with every step. Within minutes of being in the house, she mastered the doggy door - and came bursting through it proudly, her new toy in her mouth like a trophy.

There is something sacred about the way animals love.
They don’t need explanations.
They don’t ask us to be more than we are.
They simply offer presence, play, protection—and a pure kind of joy.

It’s an honor to love and be loved by the four-legged.
They are angels in fur, reminding us what it means to feel safe, connected and fully at home in our bodies.

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Reflection for You

Animals don’t judge us for having a messy day or feeling off. They simply stay present, offer comfort, and love us as we are.

What if you gave yourself just a fraction of that same grace?

Here are a few invitations to reflect on:

• What kind of self-talk runs through your mind on a hard day? Would you speak that way to a beloved pet—or a child?

• Where are you withholding love or acceptance from yourself, waiting until you’ve “earned” it?

• Is there a part of you—flawed, tender, or trying its best—that could use more kindness right now?

• What would change if you offered yourself the same unconditional love you offer to others?

Sometimes the most healing thing we can do is soften our inner voice, just enough to let love in.

I’d love to hear—what did this stir in you? Share in the comments.

And to the rescue workers, shelter staff, and foster families who care for animals like Elle Mae before they find their forever homes—thank you.
Your work is not just saving lives, it’s restoring trust, dignity, and unconditional love to the world—one soul at a time.