People ask me how the Navy influenced my animal communication. Or more to the point, “How the heck does a Naval Officer become an animal communicator??!!”
To help you understand my perspective, please let go of military stereotypes where we’re the same as Borg drones. For non-Star Trek fans, the Borg were a “pseudo-species of cybernetic humanoids or cyborgs.” And Borg drones were “assimilated individuals with Borg technology and joined with the hive mind.”
Clearly, we have a hierarchy and a Commander in Chief. We give and take orders. We were assimilated through ROTC, Officer Candidate School, boot camp or a military academy.
But many large corporations have hierarchies. They have CEOs. Bosses give directions on what to do and sometimes how and when to do it. There are dress codes. (But no saluting. That would be weird.)
How the Navy influenced my gifts and skills
Being in the military was not a piece of cake. It was a huge leap out of my comfort zone. And still, I notice Navy-influenced gifts and skills that were useful as an animal communicator. Here are some that I cherish.
(Just so you know, I was a “shore duty sailor”; when I became an Ensign, women were not allowed to serve on ships. This is a picture of the USS Ingersoll, one of the ships my husband Charlie was stationed on.)
Navy rules versus teamwork
I have to admit, there are hard-a**es in the military. They love rules and regulations and love enforcing them without exception.
But I found a different vibe that appealed much more to me. Teamwork.
I learned about damage control repair parties on ships. They’re expected to put out fires, and control mechanical and electrical damage to keep the ship afloat and functional during battles or heavy storms. Whatever it takes. To learn more, read the U.S. Naval Institute’s article, Fighting for Survival.
Animal Communication Teamwork
During an animal communication session, I view all of us as a team. It’s not just me communicating with the beloved animal. It’s all of us, human and non-human. They’re a family and I’m there to help. Our goal is to figuring out how to solve issues and enjoy each others’ company.
Serious versus sense of humor
And although the military is seen as unsmilingly serious, my experience in the Navy exposed the humor underlying everyday life. Most of my favorite examples of this humor are NOT G rated. But they do make me snicker! They lighten everything up. They help folks get through another day.
Animal Communication Humor
I love to bring humor – or maybe lightheartedness – into animal communication, where appropriate. When there are grave situations, I honor the person and animal’s experience and emotions.
Still, bringing fun and silliness can create a new energy in the relationship. Any time we can shift our anger, fear or frustration to a lighter emotion, it’s good for us.
For instance, I’ve recommended that people try singing in a lighthearted way with anxious animals, just for fun.
And I sometimes share how their personality comes across to me: I’ve shared how a small cat told me she considered herself a Sabretooth Tiger! Or when I told people that their big dog whose size sometimes scared people saw himself as a friendly guy, just like Clifford the Big Red Dog.
Thanks, Navy!