The other day my brain and I were meandering through memories when we came to a full hyperfocus stop!! Why? We realized our memories were what we remembered (well yes, hello Janet….) but what was different was the perspective we now viewed them from and the effect that change of perspective had on us.
It was like looking from the view of a completely different person - which is who we now are.
For instance: in the beginning days of my animal communication practice I believed it was enough to talk to the animals and make sure they listened and complied with human requests.
Over the years that believe has taken on a life of its own, morphing into true kinship with animals. Communication with animals is more than conversation, it’s recognizing an animal’s agency as an independent essence who doesn’t need human validation to be authentic.
For about a decade, the words ‘true kinship with animals’ have been inciting new voices, connections and ideas in my head. Showcasing “what if” thoughts and “it doesn’t have to be this way” scenarios that are infused with possibilities.
In all honesty, one thing I’ve wondered……has it been my neurodivergent mind going down a rabbit hole, seeking entertainment or escapism from my reality? Is true kinship just an abstract distraction?
NOPE, ABSOLUTELY NOT.
Let Me Introduce You To Kindred
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True kinship with animals is relationship with animals in the absence of colonized philosophy which says humans have dominion over animals. That type of thinking turns animals into second class citizens.
True kinship is a systemic change, a major paradigm shift. Right up there with the invention of the wheel. One that shakes loose and shatters the colonized assumptions we have clung to for so long about the animal/human bond.
This kind of change is done in and with community. As author Margaret J Wheatley says “There is no power for change greater than a community discovering what it cares about.”
The online community Kindred is the natural gathering spot for those yearning to be in true kinship. It’s where those who choose to see their memories and relationship with animals differently from others can gather to share experiences, support and encouragement.
You don’t need to have all the answers to become a Kindred member. As a matter of fact, please don’t! Kindred is where members learn from each other, hold each other accountable and co-create this paradigm shift together.
As you’re thinking about joining Kindred, the question to answer is not “what if I try Kindred and don’t like it?” That’s easy peasy. Try Kindred. If it is not your cuppa tea simply cancel your subscription at any time.
The question to ask is “What if I try Kindred and I like it?” That, my friend, is the question deserving your attention and one only you can answer.
But doesn’t that question sound like a lovely rabbit hole worth exploring?
If you find value and support in this newletter, please forward it to a friend or three. If you’re the friend (hello there friend!) you can learn more about my work and subscribe to your own copy here.
Thank You For Supporting The Free Teachings!
The work I do here is how I choose to show up for the world and support myself. The income I receive brings relief as it enables me to meet my financial responsibilities.
Every week you find my free teachings on the site, the podcast, in this newsletter and on social media. These are free because I want to nurture the practice of community and collaboration as best I can in a society that values power-over, competition and individualism.
I recognize there are folx who want to work with me but cannot afford a 1:1 session or a visit to the shop. These free teachings are a stopgap that gives you the teachings you’re looking for while giving me the means to meet my financial responsibilities.
I honor the integrity and wisdom of the teachings as well as the time I have spent learning, tending and passing them forward. If you are in a position to pay what you can for them I ask you to do so in a reciprocal exchange of energy.
Thank you!
About me…..
I am an animist, podcaster, intuitive practitioner and mentor identifying as she/they and respectfully acknowledge I am supported and sustained on the traditional and ancestral territory of the Séliš (Salish) and QÌispé (upper Kalispel or Pend d’Oreille) People who have stewarded this land throughout the generations.
As a practitioner of true kinship with animals, I pledge to recognize the descendants and practices of the original Peoples, Lands and Animals. I will not knowingly appropriate their wisdom, nor will I knowingly speak over their voices. When I have participated in colonialism practices, I will be accountable by publicly acknowledging the harmful practice, apologizing, and doing the needed reflection and self work to do better in the future.
For 30+ years I have facilitated clear conversations between animals and people. In my work I encourage people to recreate a bond with animals by disengaging from colonized approaches and relating in true kinship.
I am cheerfully owned and managed by a multitude of angel animals and several houseplants.
janetroper.com Kindred Membership Site Shop Podcast Blog
We all do better when ALL creatures do better.
If you find value and support in this newletter, please forward it to a friend or three. If you’re the friend (hello there friend!) you can learn more about my work and subscribe to your own copy here.