Animals often bring me to wonder with their level of consciousness. They talk about their basic needs, and then surprise me with gems of wise insight. They often notice what makes us happy and what makes us uncomfortable, frequently giving their people advice to be happy.

In honor of Valentine’s Day, I ask my animals their views on love.

Serafina, gray cat, says, “Love is listening to someone even though you do not feel like it. Love is being open to being wrong so that you can learn and grow with someone.”

Laura Stinchfield

Luca, medium poodle, says, “Love is finding friends that you enjoy playing with, and love is learning when you are hurting someone and stopping it.”

Makia, white cat, says, “Love is being comfortable. Love is making sure others are comfortable. Love is compassion. Love is taking care of yourself and eating good food that will make you healthy.”

Bean, black bunny, says, “Love is helping someone through their fear. Love is being patient and kind even when you are in a hurry. Love is noticing when someone else is having a problem and taking a moment to ask if they are okay.”

Stormy, Aussie dog, says, “Love comes from the center of your heart. It is calm and caring. Love is feeling safe and comfortable in someone’s presence. Love is a sense of trust. Love is magical, because it can heal old wounds.”

Seamore, blue and gold macaw, says, “Love is welcoming someone into your home even though you weren’t expecting them. Love is feeling safe. Love is speaking quietly and calmly.”

Jubilee, young horse, says, “Love is being excited to see someone. Love is talking. Love is communicating so that you understand each other. Love is being grateful for what you have.”

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