This week is intense, it began with a Tedx Talk and moved to a radically different kind of book tour, one tailored to changing habits of readers and the reach of new technology. It is busy every minute, there is always something to do, there are hundreds of books to sign, interviews, blog posts, etc. I believe strongly in listening to animals, I work hard to communicate with them, to learn from them, and one thing I have learned that is important to me is the idea of centering. At a time like this, when I feel a bit like a neutron in a physics lab, I go out and watch the animals. All the animals I have known – dogs, cats, sheep, donkeys, even chickens – know how to center, to gather themselves and find a quiet space.
When I got back from Albany, and before checking my e-mail, phone calls and messages, I saw Zelda and two other ewes out in the sun, centering and gathering themselves there. I took a deep breath, came into the house, and did the same for a few minutes.

I have learned that when I stop telling animals what they are thinking, and learn to actively listen to them, I learn as much about myself as them. This week, centering will be a valuable thing to know.