What The Heck Is A "Spirit Animal"?

... and why mine is probably a cat

I know there are some cultures (especially indigenous) where spirit animals is a serious subject that holds significant meaning and belief.

But I’m a middle-aged white guy.

It’s silly to ask me what my “spirit animal” is.

Nonetheless, that’s exactly what happened at a work event last week.

I wish I could tell you that I was quick on my feet and came up with a brilliant response that not only got a few chuckles but also nodding heads thinking “yeah, I can see that”.

Instead I just demurred: “I’m a civilian now, I don’t have to play this game”.

Perhaps ironically, that did get a few muted laughs.

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But me being me, and my brain being my brain, of course I spent the next couple of days thinking about how I might have answered that question for real.

In the end, I landed on …

Yep, a Cat.

(Not a majestic mountain lion or a sleek panther. Just a regular old house cat)

Basically …

I may let you scratch me behind the ears from time to time. But mostly I just want to be left alone … unless I’m hungry.

I’m not sure exactly what this does or doesn't say about me.

But since we’re here, and the topic had been brought up:

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If you ask my loved ones, they’ll tell you I’ve reached the stage of my 50s where my default state is 'grumpy housecat.'

I don’t mind being in the same room as other people …

But if anybody glances directly at me, or tries to start small talk, I may flick my tail in annoyance, and maybe even give them a dirty look.

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Then there’s my selective hearing.

Someone can be talking directly to me about weekend plans, and my brain just registers pleasant background noise. I remain completely motionless and oblivious in my chair by the computer.

But if that same person mutters (even quietly to themselves) “Fine, I’ll just go move those boxes in the garage myself,” I’m suddenly fully aware and attentive.

Not because I want to help, mind you. But because I know if I stay still for another five seconds, my quiet morning is officially over.

… of course there is a non-zero chance that I’ll just make my way to a different room and find a quiet corner to curl up in.

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Don’t even get me started on affection.

One minute I might be rubbing up against your leg, and even purring if you respond and pet me just the way I like it.

But then 15 seconds later (seemingly for no reason), the mood shifts and I just want to be left alone again.

Very confusing, I know.

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Oh man, in the end, I guess I did find my spirit animal after all.

I’m a tad disappointed in myself that I’m not a majestic eagle soaring over the mountains or a noble wolf leading the pack. Just a housecat who wants a quiet room, a comfortable chair, and affection strictly on my own terms, is almost certainly the more honest fit.

But hey, it could be worse.

At least nobody expects me to fetch anything. 😎

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Your Turn:

Are you feeling my housecat vibe too, or are you more of a golden retriever type who actually enjoys small talk and eye contact?

How would you have answered if it was you put on the spot at a conference?

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