INSTINCTIVE ME

What makes me, ME and what makes you, YOU?

The debate in psychological circles continues to rage on; what is instinctive behaviour and what is learned behaviour? How much of our personalities are genetic and how much is learned? It seems that most modern psychologists hold the view that much of our behaviour is learned; that we have been moulded from childhood into the characters which we are. Although I share this view, I also believe that the 'instinct' in us should not be discounted.

We know, for example, that there are certain emotions which are universal and observable in the facial expressions of all human beings across the world - such as anger, happiness, fear, surprise, sadness etc etc. - but how much of our instinctive behaviour is unique to ourselves as individuals? I would like to suggest that there are indeed some uniquely individualised INSTINCTIVE behaviours which are not common to all individuals. Whilst my view is not backed up by research, I continue to experience profoundness of this view on a daily basis.

In the very early hours of this morning we had our first hint of a rainstorm. Although there was quite a bit of wind, a solid soaking did not materialise. The wind and the rain brought a visitor to my bedroom. As I opened my eyes to the dawn, a tiny movement on my carpet caught my eye. A fledgling dove had found its way through my open window and had sought refuge (it seems) in the folds of my bedroom curtain. Even the dogs who share our room hadn't noticed. It was then that my own instinct gripped me - the ever pervailing compassion for people and all creatures in distress.

I gathered up the little bird in the palms of my hands and whilst still in my pyjamas padded barefoot down the passage, onto the patio and into the garden. I deposited the frightened litte creature close to a small shrub, knowing that if its mother was around, she would surely find it. I was delighted to see that within a short while the little bird embraced its own spirit, stretched its wings and flew up onto the wall.

My own instinct of releaving a creature in distress speaks so loudly to me. Indeed I believe it to be part of my soul. I remember, as a small child, sitting for hours in quiet sanctitude on our farm, just taking in God's creation and knowing how intricately involved I was in it. This kind of feeling/emotion cannot be learned. I believe it to be purposefully created in me and my experience of it - again unique to me! Its essence is raw, pure and and links directly (I believe) into my own creation.

The little dove this morning allowed me again to receive this peaceful message, "Embrace who you are, understand and listen to the instinct of your soul and honour it!" So, I would encourage you, too, to take some time aside today and ponder what it is that makes you, YOU. You are unique and indeed God's perfectly created creature. Gather your own spirit and spread your own wings to even greater heights!