I Otter Share This With You

The more I learn about psychology and trauma, the more I realize we need to share stories like this. After all, some say the Internet was invented so we could share cat videos! Otters are cute too.

This will come as a surprise to my pal Stacey. Something she told me off-hand years ago had an impact on me. When college became too stressful, she’d search the Internet for videos of puppies. Watching them reset her perspective and gave her a much-needed break.

Back in the day, I used to punish myself if things got too stressful. It was the opposite approach to Stacey’s. I just assumed I wasn’t strong enough and needed to dig in harder and push myself. I got over that by the time I got to CHFI/680 News but friend, that was deep into my career. I’m so much kinder to myself now and I hope you are too.

Why You Otter Watch This

That’s the last time I play with the word otter, I promise. Maybe.

A beautiful friendship began in Sweden when Mats Janzon found a baby otter in distress. He had been on a hike in the woods near his home. He waited for hours to see whether the wailing infant’s mother would return. Eventually, he investigated further and sadly discovered the Mama had been hit by a car. Janzon had some experience with animal rescues and took matters into his own hands. The baby otter literally fit into his palm.

Now it’s a year and a half later. He raised the otter, named her Leya, and she snuggled and cuddled on his lap like a dog. He slowly returned her to the wild in a process involving a kiddie pool and many hours of practice. Leya found her natural instincts and now lives in a nearby lake.

Janzon often takes his bright yellow kayak to the lake for a paddle. Every time he does, Leya swims out for a visit. Sometimes, she falls asleep in his arms. It’s just the sweetest darn thing and yes, there’s video. Please enjoy it whether you’re having a stressful day or not. I just think you otter see it. (I couldn’t resist!)