Today I saw a bobcat

Most mornings, I strap on my backpack and go for a hike. I walk up the hill to the park and loop around the meadow, surrounded by the mountains. 

I’ve started listening to audiobooks while doing so (current selection: Ask And It Is Given) - but this morning I decided to walk in silence. 

As I made my way back down the hill, I noticed a cat in someone’s yard. A big cat. I found myself talking out loud: Are you a cat? You’re a really big cat. Wait - ooohhh - you’re a bobcat! You’re a bobcat, aren’t you?

The bobcat simply blinked in response. It wasn’t afraid of me at all. It considered me, turned its head away, looked back at me. Because it was so calm, I wasn’t afraid either. 

We stared at each other for a minute or two. I walked a little closer to get a better look. As I walked even closer, the bobcat blinked, got up, trotted through the yard and leapt over the fence. Quietly and easily.

Before I even started walking again, I fired up ChatGPT to help me understand the significance of what happened. What I learned is:

The spiritual significance of a bobcat centers on quiet power, discernment, and self-trust. ✨

Bobcats embody traits like:

• inner knowing & discernment - trusting what you know even if you can’t prove it yet
• feeling comfortable with mystery - they move between light and shadow with ease 
• precision and right timing - they don’t waste energy - and when they act, it’s with intention
• sovereignty & independence - bobcats are solitary by nature and live within their autonomy

The suggestions it then shared include:

• Trust your calm presence
  
• Approach what matters with curiosity, not force
  
• When it’s time to move on, leap cleanly
  
  

Also worth stating: You didn’t get chased by a bobcat, so yes, you’re doing something right. 😁

All of this felt so true for me as I embrace this season of winter, of going deep within myself to connect and align with what’s true so I can create from that place instead a feeling of “OMG - I have to get GOING!”

It’s especially perfect because I’m refining a new group coaching program that blends the rhythm of the seasons with the truth of each person’s personal life cycle, offered through the lens of the power of pilgrimage. Watch this space. 👀

I’m curious - have you had a powerful wildlife encounter? How did it impact you?