Good morning! It’s Tiki here, sharing a little something I learned this week during a walk at the park.

This past weekend, the weather was so beautiful, so my mommy and I decided to go to the park for a nice, long walk. I was trotting along happily, enjoying the scenery and all the new smells. About this time, just as I was feeling completely at peace with myself, I spotted a beautiful Great Dane walking past us. She was so noble and strong and big, and suddenly I didn’t feel quite so happy with myself. Wouldn’t life be better if I were just a little bigger, or my fur was a different color? Suddenly, I felt really jealous of her and started to doubt myself.

I looked back over my shoulder at the Great Dane as she passed us, and the funny thing was that she was looking back over her shoulder at me. Maybe she was wishing she were a little smaller or had two black spots on her back like I do. It made me remember how special I am just the way I am. No other dog could demonstrate downward dog the way I do, and no other dog could greet all my yogi friends at the studio like I do. It finally dawned on me that I have my very own special gifts, and by sharing these gifts to the best of my ability, I can be completely at peace with myself and happy in my own fur. I don’t ever have to try to be something that I’m not.

So this week, if you start to doubt yourself, just remember my story from the park. Remember that we all have insecurities from time to time, but it’s important to remember how special each and every one of us is. We need to appreciate our own special gifts so that we can recognize and appreciate the gifts that others have to offer, as well. When we embrace our own uniqueness and appreciate the uniqueness of others, we can all learn to be comfortable in our own fur. Be sure to pass this along to your friends and family, and post it prominently to remind yourself all week to be happy with yourself just the way you are!

Namaste,
Tiki