Jeepers creepers (and crawlies and slithers)!
Books
I went to the Reptile Expo this month. Snakes, geckos, scorpions, spiders, and a whole lot of other creatures. It was so cool to see the magnificent diversity that exists on the planet. At the same time, I wonder about mass breeding and keeping these animals in cages with price tags(!). It doesn’t feel right. This was weighing heavily on my mind as I read Chimpanzee Politics by Frans de Waal (The chimpanzees in this book were not in cages—in fact, de Waal makes the case for creating zoos that more closely mimic natural dwellings and restricting the zoo to one or two species so they have more room to spread out). In this book, the primatologist chronicles the lives of a “family” of chimpanzees in the Arnhem Zoo. He takes copious notes of their interactions and draws conclusions based on his observations. It was fascinating to read about the dynamics of the group as they navigate sex, power, and family ties.
There were several interesting insights I gleaned, but the one I’d like to share is his observation that “friendships among chimpanzees are situation-linked.” This stood out to me. Humans cultivate friendships that are rooted in shared experiences, building an emotional connection over time. We often align ourselves with our friends even when the situations are not favorable. Likewise, we frequently refuse to work with people we deem “enemies” even to our own detriment. So I imagine: How can I look at every interaction as a fresh start, without holding a grudge and getting caught up in history? How can I find ways to create alliances that are mutually beneficial? As de Waal points out, there is clearly a distinction between “accommodative” versus “exploitative coalitions” and “[t]he term Machiavellian implies a cynical the-ends-justify-the-means exploitation of others…Sensitivity to others, conflict, resolution, and reciprocal exchange all demand a great deal of intelligence but are left out if our terminology one-sidedly emphasizes one-upmanship.” This book is forcing me to reevaluate how I view competition, friendship, and alliances. It’s leading me to question integrity within relationships—how I can build relationships with rivals and take space from friends without betrayal.
Beats
Sticking with the reptile theme, Cold Hearted Snake by Paula Abdul is a classic. I forgot how good the choreography was in this video, and the violins are fire.
Barbells
Did you know you can do animal flows for fitness? This is a throwback flow, but still fun. Give it a try and let me know how you like it.
Peace and love,
Kit
Find the balance. 