Puppies, Kittens, and Happiness

You are wonderfully made.

The research is in. Looking at pictures of animal babies can lower stress and anxiety in adult humans. The study also shows that looking at cuteness overload before doing a task can improve dexterity skills. (Side note: they showed the pictures to people before they played the child’s game “Operation” - which gave me so much stress as a child.)

Why does this matter? Because deep down we believe in new life. We believe in wonder. We believe in innocence. We believe in the compassion, love, and nurture that comes from taking care of our pets and the animals of the world.

You were once like that. You were innocent. Full of wonder. Accepting of the love offered you. But at some point your eyes were opened. The wonder fizzled. And love let you down.

Because you were looking for those things in the wrong places.

And when you shift your focus toward looking for those things from something divine. Bigger than you. Through a person so filled with love that He laid down his life for you.

Then you can rediscover the wonder of this world. You can be redeemed and refilled by a love so amazing that it changes how we live. 

So look at puppies and kittens today. You’ll feel better. But look at them and remember this: that is how God still sees you. You are wonderfully made. Never forget it.

Until Everyone Hears,