I'm Fine Just the Way I Am: Healing Emotional Pain through the Wisdom of Animals and Oracles

After reading Barb’s book about Frankie and learning that she speaks of her journey with Kundalini in this book, I had to read it. Her story is interwoven with the story of Gidget, another of her beloved dogs. This book is a testimony to the power of Emotional and Spiritual healing that is partly facilitated by Barb’s relationship with her dog along with some trusted humans. I am looking forward to the Animal Oracle deck that will be coming in the future.

I have been an avid reader of Barb’s blog for many years.I believe I've gotten a good sense of who she is through reading her writing.Who she is— is the very person she is to herself which she shows to us through her writing.In my bookcase there are books collecting dust that I’ve only read once.Then there is a small collection of other books—books with pages that have been touched by a highlighter pen,notes written in the margins and on post-it notes still stuck between the pages.These are books I've had for months and some for years— books I find myself returning to often in response to a gentle inner nudge.Barb’s book, “I’m Fine Just the Way I Am” will be in this collection.Although our house has always been filled with cats and dogs I have never had to care for a pet with chronic illness or one with disabilities.So I can't relate by experience to the joys and struggles, love and sadness.Barb can and speaks of this in her new memoir.Here you will find Barb also speaking openly, and from experience, about the feelings of frustration and angerand the guilt and shame of having these very real and understandable feelings for those of you with an ill or disabled pet.She also speaks of the blessings and knowledge she received while her dog, Gidget was alive,and those that continue to this day even though Gidget is now gone.There is also much more to this book. Barb speaks of childhood trauma that for too many years went unspoken.Perhaps many of you that are reading this are like me and also kept silent, not only afraid to share with others,but perhaps also afraid to acknowledge it within yourself.Here is a truth: guilt and shame do not belong to us.It was forced upon us when we were most vulnerable. Barb speaks to the truth of this.In this book Barb shares the wisdom of animals and speaks to the teaching of spirit animals.While this may seem a strange concept to some and not always easily accepted in our society,some of us, if we are ready, will learn so much through her experience and how animals are some of our greatest teachers that are guiding us and serving selflessly to help us heal.This book includes many self-help healing tools and knowledge to not only be of help, but to guide and support us on our own healing journeys.

Thank you Barbara for sharing this memoir!I to believe the Universe connects us to all things in a timely manner. This writing you share speaks to and if my soul...I read your words and its as if you are speaking that which I have not been able to put into words! Your honesty, vulnerability coupled by the wisdom and spirit of your blessed and gifted fur babies is an inspiration and assisting other souls to find themselves and their purpose! Thank you and God bless!!

I just finished reading your book “I am fine just the way I am”. I just loved your book and I shed many tears. I highlighted areas that touched my soul. One thing in particular. You said you choose a word each year and in 2017 you chose “magical”. That is the exact word I picked for that year. Barb your story is about making life simple and I love how you portrayed this in your book. Keep writing Barb. You definitely have a gift for it!Linda Jetzer

Barbara takes you on an intimate and powerful journey into the process of healing and coming to the conclusion that "I'm Fine Just The Way I Am" Using the tools of animal wisdom, oracle cards, and analyzing dreams, she embarks on the slow emotional process of caring for her third special needs dachshund, Gidget. We learn her struggle as she fights for her own independence, the guilt and shame she feels, and how this ties in with her painful past.This memoir left me full of emotion. It will you too.

One of the things I most appreciate about Barbara Techel's books is her willingness to share the beauty of her connections with animals and the healing wisdom she has gained from them. In her latest memoir, "I'm Fine Just the Way I Am," she also gives us a delightful glimpse into some of the spiritual practices (e.g., yoga, meditation, oracle readings, walks in nature, journaling, etc.) that have sustained her through the years and helped her heal. The kindness and compassion she demonstrates towards herself and others is truly inspirational!

The author shares generously her awareness of the process of moving through life in a loving and authentic way. It was especially sweet to me, a companion animal lover, but other friends have also commented on the universal applicability of Barbara's story . . . provides some companionship and guidance as I walk through a life transition that requires my letting go and stepping in to a new/void. Well written, balm for the heart. Much appreciated.

This book is touching—written with great honesty and heart. If you LOVE animals, and find great meaning in your relationship with your pet—especially in the symbolism of your relationship—you’ll want to read this! And, this author’s courage to face and heal her deep personal wounds, can inspire everyone, pet owner or not.