One of my favorite things to do with a group of friends is to go around the circle and ask, "If (insert name) were an animal, what would they be, and why." Everyone gets a turn to answer what they think. Inevitably someone is terrified by this question however and doesn't want to play, but I think it is a great way to get some perception on how others view you. (As long as you don't take too much of it to heart. You know who you are!) The less "scary" version of this game is to simply ask, "What animal would YOU be and why." This way you get to choose for yourself and are guaranteed the answer won't be something embarrassing like a rhino or cow. It is important that you play this game with friends that know you or have a basic grasp on what you are all about. However, it is also a fun way to gauge the first impression of a new acquaintance. You should formulate your answer by combining appearance and personality.
EXAMPLES: Animals that have been selected for me:
1. "White Exotic Tiger". This is my favorite answer. Who wouldn't want to be a White EXOTIC Tiger! The reasoning behind this answer I was told was because white and exotic seemed rare and original. I was a tiger because I could be calm and playful but this person wouldn't want to mess with me.
2. "Beautiful Butterfly". This answer was crap, but I liked it anyway. I didn't feel like there was much insight or thought to it, but I sure liked the answer. Flattery works every time!
3. Finally, my boyfriend Jason Glover's response to the question (Straight from his mouth): "Chinchilla. Only because I think they're the cutest animal ever. You can't look at one and not want to cuddle it to death." He just happens to be the sweetest boyfriend ever!
My answers for a few of my friends:
1. Jason Glover: Dog. Dogs are humble, obedient, truthful, trustworthy, good friends, and loyal. I can think of no better way to describe Jason. In addition, he is the most playful boy I've ever met! He loves to literally crawl into my lap and attempt to curl into a ball, which is no easy feat at his height. Finally, dogs and Jason, are patient and always grateful for what they are given.
2. Cory Willey: Owl. First, Owls symbolize wisdom and the ability to see and hear clearly despite the darkness. Cory has always been a friend I can go to for advice and wisdom. Second, you can't help but giggle at their hooting and that is much like Cory's laugh. Third, she's got great hooters ;) Had to be said!
3. Jen Allred: Monkey. Jen is one of the most blatantly fun people I know. Much like monkeys, there are few people that do not love Jen the minute they meet or see her. Monkeys for the most part are non-threatening, and Jen has a way of making anyone she meets feel at ease.
4. Catie Pilkington: Gerbil. The gerbil is a curious, friendly and nearly odorless animal :), making it a popular pet. I selected a gerbil for Catie first and foremost because they are so cute and little that all you want to do is put it in your pocket and take it home with you. That was my first thought when I met Catie. She is also the type of person that seems truly thankful for her friends, family, and surroundings. Just like a gerbil is content with the inside cardboard of a toilet paper roll to chew on, a water bottle to drink, and a running wheel to devote most of it's day.
YOUR TURN! You can tell me what animal you think you are, or one I remind you of.
