Recently, our 8-year-old labrador retriever cornered a skunk in our backyard. It was dark and we saw Ruby run after something in the yard, but we assumed it was a rabbit which normally makes it through the fence before Ruby catches up with it. We noticed that Ruby stopped abruptly, didn’t retreat nor bark, and just stood there. Pat went to get a flashlight and realized that a skunk was still inside the fence and she, too, was just standing there facing Ruby. It was a standoff. Well, it was a standoff now, because the skunk had already stood in her power, demanded the respect that she is as Source, sprayed Ruby, and did not feel the need to flee.
Ruby came to us when called. At this point, we were not entirely sure that the skunk sprayed Ruby because she didn’t smell like skunk spray. She smelled slightly like burning rubber. As soon as Ruby was in the house, we realized she needed a bath. Fortunately, Ruby was upwind of the skunk, so we believe she did not receive the full effect of the spray. After two rinses for Ruby and opening the windows for a while, the smell was gone enough to sleep!
But before I slept, I referred to Animal Speak: The Spiritual & Magical Powers of Creatures Great & Small, by Ted Andrews. Andrews gives insight into animals and what awareness we might want to know when we encounter a particular animal. For the skunk, Andrews indicates that the keynote awarenesses are sensuality, respect and self-esteem. Andrew writes this about the skunk.
It teaches how to give respect, expect respect and demand respect. It helps you recognize your own qualities and to assert them.
The skunk does not get out of the way of any animal. It moves along at its own speed, with its own mind. It is self-assured and confident in itself…
Skunks are fearless, but they are also very peaceful. They move slowly and calmly and they only spray as a last resort. (1)
The skunk recognizes itself as Source and recognizes its power without taking away anyone else’s power and without permanently nor severely harming anyone else.
Standing in our power with self-respect and self-esteem is how we recognize and allow others to stand in their power with their self-respect and their self-esteem. The more we emulate the respect energy of the skunk, the more we will see ourselves and others as powerful and peaceful Source energy.
(1) Ted Andrews, Animal Speak, (Minnesota: Llewellyn Publications,1993), 312-313.
Gratitude to www.thespruce.com for the attached image.